Colorado Springs, CO February 2023

WONDERFULL

Living life to its fullest includes experiencing Colorado Springs’ vibrant performing arts scene. Now celebrating our 96th year, the Colorado Springs Philharmonic is the home of captivating performances and deep moments of connection. From essential Masterworks to Pops entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Come see (and hear) it for yourself and allow us to fill your heart to the brim.

Eiko:

Book by Quiara Alegría

Conceived by Lin-Manuel Miranda

Above: Eiko Otake, Shibuya River Culvert, 2021. Photo by Tatsuhiko Nakagawa. Eiko Otake, A Body on Wall Street (detail), 2016. Photo by William Johnston.

Music and Lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda

Hudes

Love Local

People travel from all over the world to visit our beautiful city.

It’s no wonder.

Pikes Peak. Garden of the Gods. Olympic and Paralympic Museum. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Manitou Incline. Castles. Waterfalls. The United States Air Force Academy.

Loads of unique annual events.

Great food. Great shopping. Great people.

Founded in 1871 as a resort town by Civil War General William J. Palmer, Colorado Springs was known as “Little London” in its early days. It’s grown a bit since then. These days, it’s the state’s second-largest city and, in at least one local’s opinion, the best.

Recently, I was driving south on I-25. I passed the Olympic City USA sign near the Air Force Academy, glanced west toward the Front Range and unexpectedly teared up. I love this city and this region.

In short, I love local.

The art galleries. The music venues. The sports teams. The endless hiking. The darling shops. The inspired food. The proximity to skiing and other mountain getaways.

I try to support local, when possible. There are countless terrific businesses right here in the Springs, ready to serve us. They want to earn our business and they care if we are repeat customers.

The February issue of Colorado Springs Lifestyle Magazine highlights a bunch of local people and businesses – check them out!

We tell you about a Chinese tea house that offers more than 300 teas and the ability to drop your stress level from high to low in moments and a dance studio that teaches every age and ability. Learn about a bistro that prides itself on getting to know each customer and an artist whose primary medium is melted beeswax and tree resin. Would you like the inside scoop on a holistic skin and body studio or perhaps our picks for a winter getaway within a couple hours of Colorado Springs? Or... maybe you're interested in learning more about how to adopt a pet from our local Humane Society. Read on...

Happy February!

ASHLEY HAMERSHOCK, EDITOR

@COLORADOSPRINGSLIFESTYLEMAG

February 2023

PUBLISHER

Scott Barr | scott.barr@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Stephanie Barr | stephanie.barr@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Ashley Hamershock ashley.hamershock@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ashley Hamershock, Rochelle Reeder, Sydney Schardt

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Pikes Peak Humane Society, Yellow Mtn Tea House, Dance Wonderland, Walter's Bistro, Shannon Mello, Meegan Dobson Photo

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Hunter Richie

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

From restaurants, shops, artists and more, show your love and support to our city’s creatives and visionaries. Enjoy these local establishments that you’re sure to fall for while giving back to our city’s economy simultaneously.

Our Picks to Show Your Local Love

ADAMAN ALLEY: From crumbling pavement to light displays, murals and more, AdAmAn Alley opened downtown to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the club's first climb up Pikes Peak. 15 S. Tejon St., Colorado Springs, CO

STELLA & BEAU: A locally owned lifestyle boutique offering high-quality, comfortable clothing, accessories and gifts for men and women. Stella & Beau values family, hard work and community. 2516 W. Colorado Ave., Colorado Springs, CO

RANCH FOODS DIRECT: Ranch-raised beef and pork, heat-and-eat meals and savory soups, locally made artisan breads and prepared items like jams and salsas, and Colorado-grown produce. 4635 Town Center Dr., Colorado Springs, CO

STIR COFFEE & COCKTAILS: Coffee shop vibes. A completely-from-scratch kitchen. Shelves of books and booze. In addition to its Wahsatch location, Stir has opened a second shop downtown. 101 N. Tejon, Ste. 102, Colorado Springs, CO

COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER AT COLORADO COLLEGE: For more than a century, the Fine Arts Center has offered world-class art, Broadwayworthy theatre and arts education for all ages. A Pikes Peak region gem! 30 W. Dale St., Colorado Springs, CO

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Want to recommend a local experience?

Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

Adaman Alley

Allison Daniell, Stellar Propeller Studio for Downtown Colorado Springs

The team at Julie Kay Design Studio is ready to help you create a plan to transform your house into a beautiful, functional home where your family can grow and thrive.

MELTED BEESWAX + TREE RESIN = FINE ART

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HAMERSHOCK PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNON MELLO

SHANNON MELLO EMBRACES ANCIENT ART OF ENCAUSTIC PAINTING

Art has been a part of Shannon Mello’s life for as long as she can remember.

Her mom was an artist. Mello has a master’s in art education and taught middle school art for a decade. During a professional development day for work in 2018, another teacher happened to be teaching an encaustic course.

“I immediately jumped on the opportunity,” Mello said.

AN ANCIENT ART

She was fascinated by the complex process of layering, using a base of melted beeswax and tree resin. Mello bought her own supplies that weekend and promptly began to experiment. Also known as hot wax painting, encaustic painting involves a heated wax medium to which pigments have been added. Rather than a traditional oil painter’s pallet, the encaustic painter’s primary tool is a sort of griddle that heats the wax.

The word encaustic is derived from the Greek enkausikos, meaning “to heat or burn in.” Encaustic painting dates back to the ancient Greeks, who used wax to caulk ship hulls. Pigmenting the wax eventually led to decorating warships. These days, electric heating tools have streamlined encaustic’s labor-intensive layering process.

Mello adds pigments, inks, string, charcoal or other elements to her creation, then melts the concoction with a torch. And her favorite ingredient: Words.

“It’s fun to add old book pages and work with them,” she said. “They add so much to the compositions.”

A CHANGE IN DIRECTION

She had started to dabble in selling her work when a global pandemic closed schools. Mello and her husband saw an opportunity – she resigned from her teaching job to homeschool their own young children and to work on her own art on a more regular schedule.

It wasn’t an easy choice. She enjoyed teaching and says she learned as much from her students as they learned from her. But looking back, she’s glad she made the leap.

“It’s thrilling,” she said. “If it’s something that you want to do, it’s worth those scary times. Every day that I can walk into the studio and I can create something, I’m winning.”

Her kids are back in brick-and-mortar school, leaving her more time to dedicate to her art routine. After dropping the kids off, she heads into the studio with her coffee, turns on some music and digs into one of her creations. In addition to encaustic, Mello also works with watercolors as well as cold wax and oil.

“I can go into the studio and get these ideas out,” she said.

INSPIRATION FROM NATURE

Asked where she gets her inspiration, Mello said, “Anything outdoors. We’re very big advocates for the outdoors. We are hikers. We are campers. We are climbers. We are geologist geeks.”

And her nature? She’s always moving – always having to do something. She regularly collaborates with other artists in Colorado Springs.

“I love to advocate for the arts,” she said. “I love encouraging kids and students and adults. Some people don’t have an outlet. Try the arts. … Anyone can do at their own level. It’s exciting.”

She recently participated in an exhibition with Becca Day at The LookUp Gallery in Colorado Springs and in the West By Midwest Exhibit at Bitfactory Gallery in Denver. She has a solo exhibition coming up at G44 Gallery in Colorado Springs in July. And she has works in the following galleries: Kreuser Gallery and G44 Gallery in Colorado Springs and R Gallery in Boulder.

Website: shannonmelloarts.com

Facebook: @encausticartbyshannonmello

Instagram: @melloencaustics

When walking to your gate feels more like walking down the aisle...

You might be in love with your airport.

You may ask yourself, “is it weird to be in love with an airport?” But with all of the amenities and conveniences at Colorado’s small airport, we completely understand the feeling. So lean into your affections when you Fly COS, and fall in love with Colorado’s small airport.

WINTER ESCAPES

SPECTACULAR BOUTIQUE LODGING CLOSE TO HOME

Over the river and through the woods… to amazing boutique lodging we go! Anyone ready for a winter escape right here in Colorado? Check out our recommendations for the perfect getaway spots within a couple of hours of Colorado Springs!

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HAMERSHOCK | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Buena Vista

SURF HOTEL & CHATEAU

Simply enchanting. Carefully crafted details and spaces define Surf Hotel and its sister property, Surf Chateau. Overlooking the rapids of the Buena Vista Whitewater Park, guests enjoy a sense of unpretentious luxury, inspired by the understated elegance of European hotels and the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Some even feature fireplaces, claw-foot tubs and dreamy canopy beds. surfhotel.com

THE INN AT RAILROAD + MAIN

Each room is unique. From St. Elmo’s Alley King Suite to Railroad Double Queen, each of the 13 rooms boasts its own, relaxing vibe with carefully curated antiques and other special touches. The Inn offers the perfect weekend getaway for weekenders and adventurers. Located on Buena Vista’s Main Street, this 1800s historic building has been fully restored while adding modern amenities. theinnbv.com

THE INN AT RAILROAD + MAIN

SURF HOTEL + CHATEAU

Colorado S prings

KINSHIP LANDING

Want a true “staycation?” Try Kinship Landing – you’ll learn more about our own city and probably even make some new friends. This hotel in downtown Colorado Springs prides itself on offering something different. They offer bunkrooms, suites and even a neat “camp deck” that offers urban camping on the fourth floor. Cool. The folks here love to help people have a great time. kinshiplanding.com

MOUNT PRINCETON HOT SPRINGS RESORT

Situated on 70 acres, Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is surrounded by 14ers and features odorless hot springs bubbling out of the ground at 140 degrees. Those waters feed into a creek, various pools and even a waterslide. Other offerings include spa services, fitness classes and more. Play and relax at this stunning resort established in 1897. A variety of lodging types each offer a unique experience. mtprinceton.com

Salida

AMIGO MOTOR LODGE

Modern accommodations with a healthy splash of nostalgia. Amigo Motor Lodge has been accommodating guests for 60 years. Renovations have maintained a bit of the original charm in each carefully designed room and Airstream trailer. Each room offers Tuft and Needle mattresses and Malin+Goetz toiletries and the property features a hot tub and sunroom. Several hot springs are within a short drive.  amigomotorlodge.com

THE MANHATTAN HOTEL

Gorgeous, historic hotel that has embraced the self-service model – guests receive instructions on how to access their room on the day of arrival; no front desk required. Established along the banks of the Arkansas River in 1900, The Manhattan had not been in use for many years until a 2019 renovation. Enjoy stunning views from your balcony or explore beautiful downtown Salida. manhattanhotelsalida.com

AMIGO MOTOR LODGE

THE MANHATTAN HOTEL

FREIGHT

Nestled in Leadville’s FREIGHT complex, 13 brandnew, beautifully crafted cabins bearing exteriors of recycled metal and pure luxury on the inside. Built in the late 1800s, FREIGHT served as a train depot and later a lumberyard before its most recent incarnation as an event venue. Enjoy complimentary drinks at the bar, a goodie basket and even a doggie bed, if you bring your furry family member.  freightleadville.com

GRAVITY HAUS

Breckenridge Leadville

Work hard; play harder. Gravity Haus bills itself as “a social club for the modern adventurer.” Visit for the modern accommodations, mountainside co-working space, premium gear access, expert-led fitness programs and more. The globally conscious hospitality and amenities at Gravity Haus promote a mountain-loving lifestyle. Gravity Haus connects people and makes the outdoors more fun. gravityhaus.com

GRAVITY HAUS

Vail

HIGHLINE VAIL

A stone’s throw from Vail Village, this resort hotel boasts mountain lodge rooms and condo-like lofts with dreamy bedding, spacious layouts and all the latest conveniences. Just settle in and enjoy. From the spectacular lobby to the hot tub, pool and fireplaces, you’ll find style, warmth and a glimpse into the Vail that locals love. Achy after a day of skiing? Book at massage at the boutique spa. highlinevail.com

THE GRAND HYATT VAIL

Ski in, ski out! Situated at the base of Vail Mountain, this luxury resort is also within walking distance of Vail Village. Rooms, suites and even multimillion-dollar private Vail condo rentals at the associated Vail Residences at Cascade Village. There’s also a heated Creekside infinity pool, fitness center, spa, ski valet and more. The perfect launch point for endless adventure year-round. hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/ colorado/grand-hyatt-vail/egegh

THE GRAND HYATT VAIL

Anyone Can Dance

DANCE WONDERLAND: BALLROOM, LATIN, COUNTRY, SWING, TAP, JAZZ + MUSICAL THEATER

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY SCHARDT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANCE WONDERLAND

Many of us love the popular show “So You Think You Can Dance.” There’s something intriguing about watching a novice learn seemingly impossible steps and execute a striking performance. And as we sit on the couch, admiring their fast-learned skill, we can’t help but wonder, “How would I perform?”

WONDER NO LONGER

Local dance studio Dance Wonderland offers lessons for every type of partner dance. From ballroom to Latin, swing to country, Dance Wonderland is a cornucopia of elevated performance dancing.

Founded in 2017 by Naomi Skee, Dance Wonderland is a professional studio where regardless of age or ability, you can learn to dance like the pros. A longtime lover of dance, Naomi grew up “never-not-dancing” and throughout her education, she always found herself drawn to the dance floor, whether through lessons or competitive dance groups.

When someone posted an ad for a dance instructor at an Air Force base where her husband was stationed, Naomi jumped on the opportunity. She hosted group classes and private lessons, and through word of mouth, clients flooded in. When they were transferred to a different base, she again became a dance instructor and her client base tripled. Naomi realized she had waltzed right into her calling, which eventually led to opening her own dance studio in Colorado Springs.

ANYONE CAN DANCE

“I’m very analytical and I think it translates well into teaching dance. People respond well to concrete analogies. I also believe fostering a laid-back environment is so important. Our classes and studio are suitable for all levels,” Naomi explains. “Dancing is like shaking hands, it comes naturally to everyone. Anyone can dance, they just need the right tools and that’s what we provide.”

Naomi teaches ballroom dance, Latin, country, swing, tap, jazz, and musical theater.

“I really pride myself on diversity in dance and so much of it is thanks to being a military spouse. I have had the opportunity to experience different types of dances and cultures from living in so many different places. I love being able to share that with other people.”

BUILDING CONFIDENCE

Dance Wonderland lessons are fun, but Naomi explains there’s more to dance than meets the eye.

“This is about so much more than dancing; it’s about building confidence. Dance should be available to everyone, and it’s so important to me that the opportunity to experience it is there for this community.”

Sign up for dance lessons online and keep an eye out for funthemed events like a “Sweet and Spicy” event for Valentine’s Day, which includes dinner, dessert, wine, and salsa dancing!

Website: dancewonderland.com

Facebook: @dance.wonderland

Instagram: @dance_wonderland_com

Brittany Experience Coordinator

Rachel Senior Designer

Lily Junior Designer

Tricia Turk Principal | Designer

Finding Forever Homes

HUMANE SOCIETY: PROVIDING A SECOND CHANCE FOR ANY DOMESTIC ANIMAL

Humans are a relational bunch.

Introverted or extroverted, our lives are largely centered around social interaction.

This is similar with other animal groups, as well. It has been evidenced that other mammals are capable of experiencing emotions, similar to those we experience as humans. Things like

attachment, empathy and theory of mind have all been documented in animals.

So, if you ever find yourself wondering what your dog is thinking about, he might be wondering the same about you.

PETS OFFER BIG BENEFITS

The benefits of owning a pet are documented, too. Things like decreasing stress and improving heart health are among those benefits. Mentally, owning a pet can reduce feelings of loneliness, provide a mood boost and give feelings of social support. Owning a pet has also been documented to aid in child development. The act of caring for this animal strengthens the bond and oftentimes, the caregiving becomes a mutual act.

Many pet-owners don’t need to see the research to be convinced. From sharing experiences to appearing in family photos, pets are oftentimes an extension of the family unit.

PET-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY

Colorado Springs is a pet-friendly environment. It is common to walk around downtown and many of the shops have water bowls outside or treats available for pets accompanying their patrons. There are plenty of opportunities to be outside, and pets can make good adventure buddies.

Here in Southern Colorado, the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR) knows just how important having a pet can be to a person or family. They have made it their mission to care for and find forever homes for the less fortunate or vulnerable animals in this area.

Founded in 1949, HSPPR has had a few years to learn about the symbiotic relationship between animal welfare and the surrounding community. Socially conscious animal welfare is comprised of compassion, transparency and education regarding the care and respect of vulnerable animals. Placing every healthy and safe animal, considering health and wellness and working to alleviate suffering are among the pillars of this movement.

OPEN-ADMISSION SHELTER

HSPPR is unique in that they are an open-admission shelter and will accept any domestic animal that comes through the doors. Really, none are turned away. This includes reptiles, fish, birds, small and large mammals alike – they are all offered a chance at HSPPR.

As a local independent non-profit organization, they are not affiliated with larger national organizations and rely on donations to fund their animal welfare-focused work. Part of this work is providing community support for pet owners. Licensing and affordable care to animals are perhaps the most visible. Their website also provides links to behavioral resources as well as a way to contact Animal Law Enforcement.

HSPPR hopes they are your first choice when it comes time to look for a new member of the family – there is no other love like that of an animal who has been given a second chance. Take a peek at their website – it's sure to bring a smile to your face.

If you are not currently looking to add to the ranks, but want to support the mission, HSPPR offers ways to get involved through donations of time, talent and resources.

Website: hsppr.org

Facebook: @humanesocietypikespeakregion

Instagram: @humanesocietypikespeak

WITH WELLNESS COMES BEAUTY

ELKE BEAUTY: THE PERFECT BLEND OF MODERN + MINIMAL

Focusing on one’s natural beauty is a level of nirvana that many seek in a world currently obsessed with enhancement and alteration.

CELEBRATING WELLNESS

The way Tava Reese sees it, self-care is a way to empower people to heal themselves. With wellness comes beauty. Reese graduated college and immediately opened her own massage therapy practice. She rented a room downtown and also provided mobile massage. Her marketing strategies were unique to her industry to set her apart. Passion and

ARTICLE BY ROCHELLE REEDER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEEGAN DOBSON PHOTO

dedication to her craft helped her succeed. Reese opened ELKE Beauty in 2020 to expand her dream of celebrating wellness holistically with the perfect blend of modern and minimal.    ELKE focuses on skin and body care using products that are botanically based and nurturing, but also proven to provide clinical results. Reese has researched and found options for clients seeking gluten-free, hypoallergenic, vegetarian and vegan skincare. Additionally, they are one of the few places in Colorado to offer OSEA treatments.

Gua Sha and lymphatic drainage are key elements of massage and skin care at ELKE. Therapists believe in these methods to eliminate toxins and to tone skin. It helps get the blood circulating, combatting the stagnation one might experience from, say, a more sedentary workplace setting.

TRANSPARENCY

Each of the services offered at ELKE are detailed on the website so that clients are able to choose the service most suited to their personal needs. Although a Detox or Muse sounds delightful, perhaps a Vagus Nerve or Neuromuscular massage would more accurately help the client with specific needs. There is also a time-sensitive and budget-friendly option for guests who need work on a specific area or just need a quick moment of relaxation. No disguising the service in flowery rhetoric, Reese provides transparency in an effort to partner with her clients toward their wellness goals.

Reese is a big believer in helping others realize their intrinsic value. Her vision for ELKE is a place where guests feel welcome and comfortable. She recalls the feeling of walking into a salon and feeling out of place. She never wants her guests to feel that. Her goal is to foster natural beauty and wellness, not to push unnatural change.

“It’s not that people don’t know how to take care of themselves, but sometimes we need permission to see our own personal value,” says Reese.

Reese and her team at ELKE are here to create relationships and partner with their clients toward wellness, happiness and beauty.

Website: elkebeauty.com

Facebook: @elkebeauty

Instagram: @elke.beauty

SHARE THE LOVE + USE CODE LOVE OR MENTION AT CHECKOUT FOR 20% OFF YOUR SERVICE IN THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY.

A Steaming Cup of Tea

There’s something exceptionally relaxing about sipping a warm cup of steaming tea. Bonus points if it’s a loose-leaf tea, because the aromas and flavors are just that much better. When Tanya Baros moved to the United States from China, she was bound and determined to find just that: a quality, loose-leaf tea. At the time, loose-leaf teas weren’t popular in the US and were difficult to find, so like any resourceful entrepreneur, Tanya began having tea shipped from China and opened her own tea house.

RELAXING + REFRESHING

Yellow Mountain Tea House is named after a mountain range in China, and mountains signify a big and open heart in Chinese culture. Yellow Mountain is also the name of

a very popular green tea in China. And true to its name, Yellow Mountain Tea House is a place that stays devoted to its cultural roots.

“Step into our tea house and you will instantly feel relaxed and refreshed,” Tanya explains. “Our atmosphere is intentionally calming, and this is a place where people come to feel peaceful, to heal, to recenter themselves and sip a beautiful cup of tea.”

MORE THAN 300 TEAS

And there are plenty of teas to choose from. Yellow Mountain serves and offers more than 300 different varieties of teas: green tea, black tea, oolong tea, white tea, pu-erh tea, and herbal teas. The majority of the teas are from China,

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY SCHARDT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY YELLOW MOUNTAIN TEA HOUSE

YELLOW MOUNTAIN TEA HOUSE DEVOTED TO ITS ROOTS

but some are from Japan, South Africa, and South America. Tanya carefully handpicks every herb and tea because quality is not something she is willing to compromise. She even creates the herbal blends herself, using knowledge learned from her grandfather, who was an herbal doctor in China and taught her the many benefits of herbal remedies and mixtures. Yellow Mountain also does authentic Chinese Tea ceremonies and serves organic Dim Sum, which is an original family recipe.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCE

“This is different than what most people experience when dining out. Everything is thoughtfully and carefully done. We don’t rush a meal out to your table because we aren’t willing to compromise the food or the process of making it. Coming to Yellow Mountain is a true cultural experience.”

Even if you walk into Yellow Mountain simply to purchase your tea in bulk, you can feel the change in atmosphere, and it instantly draws you in.

“People can feel your energy, so when you are passionate about something it radiates into the atmosphere. That’s what people love about Yellow Mountain Tea House: the energy,” explains Tanya. “If you are stressed, or just need to pause, come to our tea house. It’s a healing environment where you can just take the time to recenter yourself and unwind. You can ask any of our customers, people are happy here.”

Website: yellow-mountain-organic-tea.com

Facebook: @yellowmountainteahouse

Instagram: @yellowmountain_teahouse

SERVING UP FOOD + FRIENDSHIP FOR DECADES

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HAMERSHOCK PHOTOGRAPHY BY WALTER’S BISTRO

WALTER’S BISTRO: FINE DINING IN A COZY SETTING

”Sometimes, you want to go where everybody knows your name. And they’re always glad you came.”

Walter’s Bistro is that kind of place – but with contemporary fine dining.

“I’ve been around for a long time,” said owner Walter Iser. “We have such a great repeat business. People think of it as a little Cheers. It’s a good feeling.”

Walter started his culinary career in 1964 in Salzburg, Austria, eventually serving his way through prestigious establishments in Switzerland, Bermuda, Scottsdale and Dallas before landing in Colorado Springs.

THE RISE OF WALTER’S BISTRO

After more than a decade as food and beverage director at the Garden of the Gods Club, he struck out on his own in 1999 to open Walter’s Bistro. Five years later, the restaurant moved from its original 8th Street location to its current home at 146 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd.

It would be easy to miss it, tucked into the corner of a strip of businesses behind a sprawling, tree-lined parking lot. But the unassuming location is part of its beauty. Patrons never have to compete for a parking spot here.

Step inside to a different world. Warm lighting, a huge hearth and white tablecloths invite diners to relax and enjoy being pampered for a spell. The main dining room seats a max of 65, meaning each customer gets special attention, usually including a visit with Walter himself.

“I know more people by name than not,” Walter said.

Adds Executive Chef Greg Thorman: “He’s the heart and soul of the restaurant. …Walter makes it special. … We’ve got the friendly neighborhood atmosphere.”

THE MENU

Some fan favorites such as Chilean sea bass and lobster bisque have been on the menu since the beginning and never rotate off. Others rotate in and out over the course of a year, including ossobuco, cioppino, chili and roasted half chicken.

“We’ve been very consistent in food and quality,” Walter said. “We change the menu three to four times per year.”

And in between, Chef Greg and Walter have re-instated their monthly “Fresh Sheets” – simple, printed paper sheets with new menu ideas they want to try out before adding them to the official menu.

“It’s a new way to try out different menu items,” said Greg, who has been chef at the bistro for 7 1/2 years.

The youngest of five children, Greg was raised in the kitchen with his mom. At age 18, he started working with chefs in Florida and later in the Carolinas. He has brought fresh ideas to Walter’s, including Carolina-style BBQ ribs.

“It took me a couple of years,” he said, chuckling. But finally, he persuaded Walter to try his mustard-and-vinegar-based BBQ sauce and they have since added the dish to the regular rotation.

Chef Greg gets inspiration from various magazines and swaps recipe ideas with his many chef friends serving up great food from coast to coast. The dishes never get stale here – they’re constantly innovating.

Walter’s is open Monday thru Saturday from 5-8:30 pm, with the exception of a few major holidays, and reservations are recommended. There’s a well-appointed bar, as well, and every menu item is offered in that space, too. Don’t forget dessert!

Website: waltersbistro.com

Facebook + Instagram: @WaltersBistro

SWEET TREATS FOR YOUR PUP

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JANIE JONES

PEANUT BUTTER

DOG TREATS

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4-1/3 cup peanut butter

• 2 eggs

• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine all ingredients except flour well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Lightly flour a surface and knead. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness with a rolling pin. Cut with bone-shaped cookie cutters and place  on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional)

BIRTHDAY CAKE FOR YOUR PUP

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

• 1 egg

• 4 tablespoons peanut butter

• 1/2 cup apple chopped fine

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a ramekin and set aside. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour batter into ramekin and sprinkle a few apple slices on top. Bake for 20 minutes.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

FEBRUARY 4TH

Winter Fun Carnival

FOX RUN REGIONAL PARK | 10:00 AM

A celebration of winter’s beauty at Fox Run Regional Park! Roast hot dogs and marshmallows enjoy live music, wagon-drawn hayrides through the park, storytelling, dog costume contest, parade, games and prizes. Proceeds support a new nature center. $5 per person includes food and all activities. Pre-registration at elpasocountynaturecenters. Day of event payment is cash only.  communityservices.elpasoco.com/parks-andrecreation/fox-run-regional-park

FEBRUARY 4TH

A Full Dance Card

BROADMOOR COMMUNITY CHURCH | 7:00 PM

Chamber Orchestra of the Springs presents audience favorites Jacob Klock and Elisa Wicks performing a duo concertante by Joseph Boulogne. Meanwhile, Amy Goeser Kolb brings forth a rarely heard instrument for Bach’s Concerto for Oboe d’amore in A Major. Composer Jennifer Higdon's Dance Card rocks the house before concluding with Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 3. Two performances; two locations.  chamberorchestraofthesprings.org/a-full-dance-card

FEBRUARY 7TH

Four Continents Figure Skating Championships

BROADMOOR WORLD ARENA | 9:00 AM

U.S. Figure Skating will host the International Skating Union's Four Continents Figure Skating Championships from Feb. 7-12. Held annually, the event is a competition between skaters representing non-European countries. Skaters from the Americas, Asia, Africa and Oceania will compete in singles, pairs and ice dancing. The event returns to Colorado Springs for the fourth time in 17 years. broadmoorworldarena.com/events/detail/fourcontinents

FEBRUARY 9TH

Aubergine

ENT CENTER FOR THE ARTS | 7:30 PM

Korean-American chef Ray cares for his dying father but struggles to connect with the man who never understood his life’s calling in the kitchen. When his uncle arrives unannounced to cook an unexpected last meal, they share more in food than they ever could in words. This poignant play explores food as nourishment, not only to the body, but also to our individual heritage and shared humanity. Feb. 2-19. entcenterforthearts.org/3334/3787

FEBRUARY 9TH

"Boots, Bubbles and Bourbon" Extravaganza

PRO RODEO HALL OF FAME | 6:00 PM

Honor Flight of Southern Colorado is hosting this event with live entertainment, wine and bourbon tastings, a wine pull and a silent auction. All proceeds will go towards sponsoring its first women-only Honor Flight in April. Honor Flight transports veterans free of charge on a three-day tour of Washington DC to visit memorials. honorflightsoco.net/

FEBRUARY 17TH

Winter Wonderfest with the Pikes Peak Opera League

PATTY JEWETT CLUBHOUSE | 5:00 PM

A tuneful exploration of a chapter in The Great American Songbook, Marcia Ragonetti, Travis Yamamoto and Steve Taylor take on legendary composer Jerome Kern, "the father of American musical theatre." Historical insights and a musical feast of iconic songs including highlights from Showboat. Elegant appetizer buffet and cash bar. Proceeds will go to our PPOL scholarship and career award funds.  pikespeakoperaleague.org/ event-details/winter-wonder-fest

FEBRUARY 21ST

Our Planet, Live In Concert

PIKES PEAK CENTER | 7:00 PM

The award-winning Netflix series Our Planet is now a live concert event. It combines HD cinematography with all-new orchestrations by composer Steven Price and is performed by a live onstage orchestra. A journey of discovery across our planet, this concert welcomes audiences to be fully immersed in the wonders of earth’s wildlife and their habitats. pikespeakcenter.com/events/detail/ourplanetlive

FEBRUARY 24TH

Colorado College Men's Ice Hockey

ED ROBSON ARENA | 7:30 PM

The Colorado College Tigers host the North Dakota Fighting Hawks in men's ice hockey Feb. 24-25. We're nearing the end of the National Collegiate Hockey Conference regular season, so if you want to see some great hockey, now is the time to grab tickets. The Tigers will also host Denver University on March 4. cctigers.com/index.aspx?path=MHOCK

FEBRUARY 25TH

Broadmoor Winter Polo Classic

NORRIS PENROSE EVENT CENTER | 12:30 PM

The Pikes Peak Region will welcome a resurgence of the resort's storied polo past to warm up your winter. The winter polo tournament will feature top polo players from around the country. Six horses roaring toward each other at 30 miles per hour, each carrying a man or woman with a long mallet, trying to hit a tiny ball across a field. hermanosranch.com

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Turning 65 or new to Medicare?

When talk turns to Medicare, refer a friend

They trust you and they can trust your agent

As they approach Medicare eligibility, your family and friends may ask you questions about premiums and benefits. But they’re really asking who listened, treated you well, made things clear, helped you choose your plan who did it right. Don’t be shy about telling them what you know and who you know your licensed sales agent.

This is a people business

Humana goes above and beyond to help you get the care you need. We call that human care. That’s what your friends want to know.

Come visit us at:

Humana MarketPoint® Office 5310 N. Nevada Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Stop by and speak to a licensed Humana sales agent in your community

Humana MarketPoint® Office

719-532-7700 (TTY: 711)

Monday - Friday 9 AM - 5 PM

A more human way to healthcare™

Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal. At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, ethnicity, marital status, religion or language. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 877‑320‑1235 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 877‑320‑1235 (TTY: 711).

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917 Motor City Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80905

719-219-1911

PorscheColoradoSprings.com