Colorado Springs, CO August 2023

Paint | Greg Johnson | 48x72

Letting Go | Gwen Fox | 36x36

Abundance | Lynn | 36x48

Photo by Douglas Merriam

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).

The Good Old Days...

Remember the good old days?

The days of playing outside with friends until your parents called you in for dinner. The days of bicycles and stick-shift cars and vinyl records. The days of homecooked meals and Kool-Aid and running through the sprinklers? The days of mowing through stacks of books.

Those barefoot August days, squeezing the last bits out of summer before school started?

Innocent times.

Simple times.

We have all sorts of ways to reclaim a bit of child-like fun in this month’s issue of Colorado Springs Lifestyle.

Learn about a local farm that grows clean, better-than-organic veggies year-round, a railroad storage warehouse turned restaurant, and a local business baking up bunches of brownies.

Music your thing? We feature a music store founded nearly half a century ago by a local school music teacher.

Looking for things to do? Try our list of fun places to take your dog, visit an unusual gallery offering all kinds of curiosities or try your hand at an age-old sport great for all ages and bodies.

Finally, we have a short history lesson on our favorite zoo.

Whatever you’re doing this summer, we hope you’re enjoying it. Thanks for taking a few minutes to read our latest issue. Happy August!

August 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, Lindsay Tallman, Cara Bukacek

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Cheyenne Mtn Zoo, El Paso County Parks, Stephen Martin Explore with Media, Pub Dog Colorado, Lost Friend Brewery, Courtney Thompson, Cara Bukacek, Novis Morten Collective, The Warehouse Restaurant + Gallery, Black Forest Brownies, Front Range Fencing Club, Meeker Music, Gather Food Studio

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

ASHLEY HAMERSHOCK, EDITOR @COLORADOSPRINGSLIFESTYLEMAG

(Clarification: In the June 2023 issue, in the 1350 Distilling article, it should have said that Abbie Weien and Kandis Bragg met and worked together at Douglass Valley Elementary School on the USAFA base rather than in Douglas County.)

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Hunter Richie

LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker

DOG WALK + BEER FEST

Pawtoberfest is one of Colorado’s ONLY dog-friendly festivals, featuring a craft brews and spirits tasting, a dog walk, pet contests, activities for the whole family and plenty of scrumptious food from local food trucks!

Purchase your tickets at

Bear Creek Regional Park

AUGUST 2023

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Grab the kids, pack your bags and hit the town for some end of summer fun. Use our list for some family-friendly adventures that will do everything from raising your heart rate, excite the little ones, and create lasting memories together.

Our Picks for Family-Friendly Fun

USAFA PLANETARIUM: Have you taken your kids to the USAFA Planetarium? It's free and it's fun! They offer various shows each week, open to the public.  2120 Cadet Drive, Colorado Springs, CO

NORTH POLE COLORADO-SANTA’S WORKSHOP: Entrance to the North Pole is free during the summer and fall. Just purchase wristbands for those who want to ride the rides.  5050 Pikes Peak Hwy Cascade, CO

SPACE FOUNDATION DISCOVERY CENTER: Head over to the Space Discovery Center near Garden of the Gods for some interactive science fun. Learn more about galaxies, stars and planets.  4425 Arrowswest Dr Colorado Springs, CO

UNITED STATES OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC MUSEUM: It's a great time to visit the United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum. Be inspired and learn a few life lessons from great athletes.  200 S. Sierra Madre Street, Colorado Springs, CO

SUP COLORADO SPRINGS: Like stand-up paddleboarding? S.U.P. Colorado Springs operates out of Prospect Lake in Memorial Park or Quail Lake. Fun for the whole family.  427 Prospect Lake Dr, 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.

Zoo with a View

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Hippos and Tigers and Giraffes... Oh, My!

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY SCHARDT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo stands above the rest. Located about 6,800 feet above sea level, our local zoo not only offers breathtaking views of our city, it is also ranked as the fourth-best zoo in North America by USA TODAY, and for good reason.

FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION TO WORLD-CLASS ATTRACTION

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, you’re aware of the thoughtfully designed exhibits that mirror natural habitats from around the world and get you as close as possible to the animals. And don't forget the distinctive landscape of this mountain zoo. Built on the side of a local slope, Spencer Penrose founded the zoo in 1926 to house his collection

of exotic animals. After he deeded it as a non-profit to the city of Colorado Springs, the zoo continued to grow and expand and animals from around the world now dwell here.

Open seven days a week, 365 days a year, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is home to over 30 species of endangered animals. It also boasts one of the largest giraffe herds on the continent and is renowned for its up-close-and-personal giraffe feeding experience. A zoo where you can do more than just look, there are multiple experiences involving the animals. Get eye-to-eye with the hippos, paint with reptiles, feed elephants and rhinos, and even toss treats to Emmett & Digger, the zoo’s grizzly bears. CONTINUED >

EMPHASIS ON CONSERVATION

The zoo is also proudly committed to the preservation of wildlife through its conservation program, Quarters for Conservation (Q4C). With every visit, zoo guests receive 75 cents from admission in the form of tokens, which they can use to help fund conservation projects the zoo supports. Contribute to the conservation of orangutans, giraffes, black footed ferrets, African elephants, Amur tigers and other animals by dropping your quarters into one or more of the colorful quarter kiosks. Spare change is welcome, as well.

“Quarters for Conservation is such an amazing way to provide an opportunity for our staff and our community to engage in the conservation projects Cheyenne Mountain Zoo supports,” explains Rachel Wright, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s public relations and social media manager. “It’s really a treasure to be able to experience wildlife here at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, all the while supporting animal conservation around the world.”

FUN EVENTS

The Zoo offers a plethora of unique events. Experience magical nights on the mountain at Tales, Tunes & Tastes; Paint Sip Safari; Date Night Starlight Safari, and Boo at the Zoo. Or participate in hands-on camps and classes to experience the zoo in a variety of different creative ways.

“We love to invest and get involved with our community, by providing as many different ways as possible for people to experience Cheyenne Mountain Zoo,” Wright says. “After all, there really is no other zoo like it.”

Website: https://www.cmzoo.org/

Facebook: @CMZoo

Instagram: @CheyenneMountainZoo

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.

Brownies... with a Story

In high school, Jess Williams worked as a cashier and in-house cook at a chocolate shop. In college, she worked at an ice cream shop. After earning her undergraduate degree in accounting and finance, she returned for a master’s degree in human resources.

KIDS + LIFE

Everything was going according to plan until she decided to stay home and focus on her children – at least for a little while. She now has a blended family with four children ranging from 12 to 16 years old.

Long ago, she started a tradition – she would make any dessert for family members' birthdays. Her brownies were always a hit. And when

one of her children was diagnosed with celiac disease, the family simply made their whole home gluten-free.

Then, a few years ago, her father had a double lung transplant and her parents moved in with Williams and her family. He had a sweet tooth and in his final months, all he wanted was for Williams to cook for him. After her dad passed away, Williams’ husband, Ben, asked whether she might consider selling her brownies.

“The first day, I sold 10 dozen brownies,” she says.

Today, Williams and her husband, a former Army Special Forces medic and current neurosurgical physician assistant, are the proud owners of Black Forest Brownies.

BLACK FOREST BROWNIES: AN “ACCIDENTAL BUSINESS” TURNED SWEET SUCCESS

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HAMERSHOCK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLACK FOREST BROWNIES

LOCAL INGREDIENTS

Williams tries to use as many local ingredients as possible in her brownies, including Sawatch butter, Outrageous flour from Longmont and eggs from her family’s 40 chickens.

“It matters to me because being a small business owner, I always appreciate when other small businesses support me,” she says.

LOTS OF FLAVORS

Black Forest Brownies offers about a dozen varieties.

A fan favorite is salted caramel. “It sells out every time,” Williams says. “I make my own caramel in small batches and use honey. I bake caramel into the brownie and on top.”

Other flavors include espresso, brookie (half brownie, half cookie) and more. Order online for delivery or pick up or find them at Backyard Market in Black Forest.

Website: https://www.blackforestbrownies.com/ Facebook: @blackforestbrownies

Instagram: @black_forest_brownies

“It matters to me because being a small business owner, I always appreciate when other small businesses support me.”

Brittany Experience Coordinator

Rachel Senior Designer

Tricia Turk Principal | Designer

ARTICLE BY ROCHELLE REEDER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEEKER MUSIC

Bringing Music to the Masses

Meeker Music: Infusing Sound and Art into the Springs since 1975

Plato once said “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.”

Charles Meeker was a staple in the Colorado Springs school music scene. He taught choir at Palmer High School and then at Wasson High School. He wrote the Wasson High Alma Mater and became one of the heads of the D-11 music program. But in 1975, he decided to take it a step further. He saw a need and decided to meet that need. He established Meeker Music and the music store has been infusing sound and art into the Colorado Springs community ever since.

EQUIPMENT, LESSONS, REPAIRS + MORE

Meeker Music offers the community a place to find all of their music equipment and accessories with the help of friendly, knowledgeable and tenured employees. With three locations, they boast one of the largest sheet music inventories in the area. The store also has studio spaces that are rented by local musicians so they can teach lessons. Instrument repairs are offered on-site and they see many local musicians come through to have work done on their instruments, as well.

Following in Charles Meeker’s legacy, one of Meeker Music’s main missions is to provide music rentals to schools in Colorado Springs. Families can come into the store to try out instruments before they rent or buy. Meeker also takes instruments directly into the schools so kids can try out their instrument of choice and see if it is one they want to commit to in a band or orchestra setting.

FAMILY OWNED + OPERATED

The store is still family owned and operated. Charles’ daughter, Connie, and Connie’s late husband, Ken, owned the store for many years. After Ken’s passing, their daughter, Kelly, stepped in as co-owner with her mom. Kelly reminisced that her dad, Ken, had no musical background but learned to play many of the instruments just so he could fix them for the store.

Website: https://www.meekermusic.com/

Facebook: @meekermusic

Instagram: @meekermusicinc

Where Everybody Wants to Know Your Dog’s Name

COLORADO SPRINGS OFFERS DOG-FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE

ARTICLE BY LINDSAY TALLMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EL PASO COUNTY PARKS/ PUB DOG/LOST FRIEND BREWING/ EXPLORE WITH MEDIA

When it comes to activities in Colorado Springs, most people would agree that the Olympic City offers a little bit of something for everyone. But people may not know that this city also offers attractions and activities galore for our most loyal furry friends.

Why leave your dog behind? Here are just a few of the options available to enjoy with your dog.

ATTRACTIONS

Broadmoor Seven Falls – Dogs on a leash are welcome to visit the seven waterfalls in this stunning box canyon.

Manitou Cliff Dwellings – Leashed dogs are welcome to visit all areas of the ruins including the museums.

Peterson Air and Space Museum – Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome to visit and explore aviation history at this museum.

Pikes Peak – What could be cooler than seeing the world from 14,000 feet? Dogs are welcome to visit the summit on a leash.

PARKS AND RECREATION

Bear Creek Dog Park – Dogs can play off-leash in this 25-acre dog park that includes a 1/3-mile stretch of Bear Creek, plenty of open space and an agility training area.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park – Dogs on a leash (no longer than 6 feet) are allowed on the following designated trails: Acorn Alley, Bobcat Way, Raccoon Ridge and Soaring Kestral (marked portion only).

Garden of the Gods – Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome to explore the Garden of the Gods with their owners. Pets are also welcome in the Visitor and Nature Center and the Trading Post store.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space – In addition to exploring the 785 acres of open space on a leash, Red Rock Canyon Open Space offers an unfenced, off-leash area containing two loop trails for dogs to roam freely.

RESTAURANTS AND BREWERIES

Pub Dog Colorado – This bar and restaurant includes a heated indoor and outdoor fenced-in, off-leash space for dogs to play while customers enjoy their meal. A small percentage membership fee is added to the bill.

Breweries - Many breweries are dog-friendly and welcome dogs in designated areas including Bristol Brewing Company, Cerberus Brewing Company, FH Beerworks, Fossil Craft Beer Co., Happy Tap, Lost Friend Brewing Company, Metric Brewing, Phantom Canyon Brewing Co. and Trails End Taproom.

Restaurants - Many restaurants in Colorado Springs provide dogfriendly outdoor patio seating. Be sure to check out their websites or call before bringing your well-behaved companion along for a meal.

“MANY BREWERIES ARE DOGFRIENDLY AND WELCOME DOGS IN DESIGNATED AREAS...”

Fine Dining + Fine Art

The Warehouse Restaurant & Gallery: Colorado

Cuisine with a Personal Approach

ARTICLE BY CARA BUKACECK PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE WAREHOUSE RESTAURANT & GALLERY

In the heart of downtown Colorado Springs is an historic structure, built in 1896, that once served as a railroad storage warehouse. Over the years, the building has been repurposed and renovated several times. It has housed a general store, a plumbing company, a brewery and a restaurant that was appropriately named The Warehouse.

Chef James Africano was the executive chef at The Warehouse from 1998 to 2007 before he moved to New Mexico to work for Ted Turner’s Vermejo Park Ranch. After several years in New Mexico, Africano and his wife, Shaundy, decided to move back to Colorado Springs to purchase The Warehouse in 2015.

New Feel

The Africanos removed the brewery equipment and renovated the space to include a main dining room and three event spaces. The dining room is an industrial-style space with exposed brick and relics of the past. The open kitchen and vintage-style, wrap-around bar set the tone for a high-end dining experience.

Diners also have the opportunity to admire locally sourced artwork on display, most of which is available for purchase.

“Shaundy and I want people to feel like they are enjoying a meal in our home,” Africano says. “Warm and personal is our approach.”

Local Ingredients

Food is the main event here. Chef Africano sources many of his high-quality ingredients locally and changes the menu quarterly for seasonal offerings.

“The new menu items are a collaborative effort between myself and my team of chefs. I value their ideas and input.” Africano says.

Colorado cuisine such as the elk loin strip, buffalo ribeye, and wild boar green chile stew are staples and always on the menu.

Signature cocktails include a southwest margarita and a well-balanced old fashioned. And for those who appreciate a draft beverage, there are several local beers on tap available, as well.

For hours of operation, reservations, and information on event spaces, contact information is available below.

Website: https://www.thewarehouserestaurant.com/ Facebook: @whcos

Instagram: @thewarehousecos/

Curiosities, Unusual Finds + Peculiar Art

Novis Mortem Collective: Not Just a Gallery; An Experience

When you step through the doors of 22 E Bijou Street, you immediately sense the curious and alternative vibe of Novis Mortem Collective. As your eyes take in various framed insects, bone art and unique handmade jewelry, your inquisitive mind will persuade you to come in for a closer look.

A COLLECTIVE OF ARTISTS

Owner Bea Solo has curated art pieces both locally and from around the world.

She mainly features artists who are typically underrepresented. As a collective, the artists focus on the Novis Mortem Mission: Education, Sustainability and Community.

ARTICLE BY CARA BUKACEK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NOVIS MORTEM COLLECTIVE

Bea, an entomological taxidermist, creates fine art using colorful and rare insects. Her signature artwork includes lamps that are constructed with Edison bulbs and butterflies mounted in flight. When the lamps are on, the butterflies take on an ethereal quality and their reflective wings appear to glow.

Classes include (but are not limited to): bone cleaning, insect pinning, botanical dye making and electroplating.

The Novis Mortem Collective proudly partners with Inside Out Youth Services and has a pay-it-forward program designed to provide free art classes to some youth who might not have the means to pay for a class.

SHARED KNOWLEDGE

When Bea was growing up her dad, Udo, often shared a quote that resonated with her: “Knowledge can only multiply if it’s divided.” – source unknown

Because of this philosophy, monthly classes are offered by artists in the collective where they teach some of the techniques featured in the gallery.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME

Bea wants the gallery to feel inclusive to everyone, including children. She puts her customers at ease with a warm smile, a cozy couch and a wealth of fun facts and information about the artwork featured in her shop.

This spot is not just a gallery, but an experience to be had by all.

Website: https://www.novismortemcollective.com/ Facebook + Instagram: @novismortemcollective

more tranquility

Find wonder and adventure at Gaylord Rockies. Unwind on a family getaway and enjoy quality time together with seasonal activities, our exciting Arapahoe Springs Water Park, delicious dining, and more.

GaylordRockies.com

more exploration

more delight

One Farm, Four Missions

Ahavah Farm: Community-Supported Agriculture, Grown with Love

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HAMERSHOCK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AHAVAH FARM

Ahavah means "love." Not just any love, however.

In Hebrew, the definition is very specific: “To give of oneself.”

Yosef and Havah Camire and their seven children have done just that with their farm east of Colorado Springs. This land started out as a second property, meant to be a peaceful getaway spot, for this family.

“There was nothing here,” Yosef says. “There was a broken-down blue mobile home and a shed. No kitchen. No bathroom. It was really, really bad. We found 45 mice the first night.”

When they stopped into Don’s Garden Shop to buy supplies, the owner asked whether they were building a farm. Yosef, a biomedical engineer, explained that they were simply constructing a garden for their family. But the question got him thinking.

WHAT IF?

Yosef read 18 books on the subject that winter and the family moved full time to the Peyton farm. His wife suggested they start a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) farm to help offset costs for their garden. They extended an offer to a handful of friends and family members, who paid a set amount for fresh produce from the garden.

They started out with 12 members, had some produce left over and decided to try selling at a farmer’s market.

“At the farmer’s market, we killed it,” Yosef said. “People came up to us after two weeks with tears in their eyes, thanking us for the pure food.”

The Camires quickly decided to make their food “pay what you can afford.” They stopped

worrying about inventory, focusing instead on building a sustainable homestead and getting good food into the community.

They grow everything close together, without chemicals. In fact, they don’t even use any of the 36 chemicals allowed in organic farming. Everything is biological here. No chemicals. No fertilizers. No pesticides or synthetics. The plants essentially feed themselves.

“Our yields are huge,” Yosef says.

TODAY

Ahavah Farm has grown steadily over the last decade. Today, it’s a 300-member, four-season CSA – an ecological and educational farm. It’s 100 percent solar and carbon negative with 15 greenhouses and various outdoor garden areas.

The Camires grow more than 100 varieties of plants, including many heirloom varieties and microgreens.

“The goal has been to produce as much food as possible to feed as many people as possible – without any compromises. … We’re not here to get rich. We’re here to raise our children and serve our community,” Yosef said.

Everything they do serves one of three areas: the earth/environment, the local community and/or their health.

They rely on volunteers to make the farm work and they always welcome more. On a recent day, about 20 volunteers organized by financial advisor Stephanie Colgate helped weed the greenhouses and clear an outdoor garden area of what was left over from last year’s harvest – one plant at a time.

“People came up to us after two weeks with tears in their eyes, thanking us for the pure food.”

Wheelbarrows brimming with bright green weeds feed the chickens, horses, alpacas and other animals. Nothing goes to waste at Ahavah.

FOUR MISSIONS

Ahavah is more than a farm. Sure, it offers weekly small, medium and large veggie shares available for pick up at locations throughout the region. Same with microgreen shares.

It also hosts numerous events, tours and events throughout the year.

And it has a nursery and garden center, where people can buy organic Ahavah plants to grow at home. The farm is worth a short trip, but if you’d prefer to buy closer to home, Ahavah also operates a mobile nursery that makes stops along the Front Range.

But one mission stands above the rest, in Yosef’s eyes: the Ahavah Community Initiative, a program designed to get food to families in need. People apply to receive donated veggie shares, a board reviews all applications and those who are approved become Ahavah Farm members with all privileges – no different from a paying customer. Since 2018, ACI has given nearly $500,000 worth of produce to people in need.

“I think it’s the best non-profit out there,” Yosef says. Ahavah is simultaneously a farm of the past and of the future.

“What we do is something really special,” Yosef says. “It’s really unique.”

Website: https://www.ahavahfarm.com/ Facebook + Instagram: @ahava hfarm

“What we do is something really special, It’s really unique.”

FRONT RANGE FENCING CLUB: TEACHING A LIFETIME SPORT TO ALL AGES

THE MARTIAL ART OF SWORDSMANSHIP

ARTICLE BY ROCHELLE REEDER PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRONT RANGE FENCING CLUB

En garde!

This term often conjures up memories from childhood, playing with sticks. Or perhaps it is a nostalgic reminder of the cult classic movie The Princess Bride. For those who might be a little more versed in swordplay, it could bring up visions of light sabers from the Star Wars sagas.

SWORDSMANSHIP

Fencing is the martial art of swordsmanship that traces back to the 1300’s. It was developed for duels and self-defense at that time and was used largely in a military capacity. In the mid-18th century, this skill started transitioning to a sport.

As an individual sport, the fencer has to engage in both offense and defense simultaneously. It is a quick sport and requires agility both mentally and physically. What is appealing to many about fencing is that it is a lifetime sport. The participant does not need a certain level of athleticism to start, and there is no age limit. Whether you're seven or 70, if you are looking to pick up a new sport, fencing could be for you.

AN ARTFORM

Colorado Springs is unique for many reasons; one of which is the distinction of Olympic City USA. Many current and former Olympians and world class

athletes still call Colorado Springs home and look to stay involved with their sport in one way or another.

Kathryn Lewis-Salem discovered the sport of fencing early on and started as soon as she was able. Her college offered fencing as a sport and she was soon hooked. She notes that she appreciated the history and tactical nature of the sport. It didn’t hurt that the movement itself is beautiful and has been referred to as its own artform.

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY, GROWTH + RESILIENCE

Lewis-Salem established the Front Range Fencing Club 19 years ago to introduce Epee style fencing to Colorado Springs. Today, there are three certified fencing coaches teaching beginning, intermediate, recreational and competitive fencing to those interested. The equipment is provided by the club to start as this gives the

participant the opportunity to be active for a while before committing.

Class sizes are small and coaches make it a point to foster personal responsibility, growth and resilience alongside the fundamentals of the sport itself. Classes are set up so participants can come one time a week for socialization and community or more if the competitive nature strikes.

It’s a great sport to pick up with a partner, too – Lewis-Salem notes there are parents who come with their children as well as couples and friends who have taken on this activity together. If the pickle ball revolution just wasn’t for you, but you are still looking for a community sport that challenges both mentally and physically, visit the website to see how you can get involved.

Website: https://www.frontrangefencingclub.com/  Instagram: @front_range_fencing_club

Peach & Green Chili Crostada

INGREDIENTS

For the crust:

• 4 oz butter, unsalted

• 8 oz all-purpose flour

• 3 oz ice cold water

• ½ teaspoon salt

For the filling:

• 2 peaches, peeled and sliced

• 1 roasted green chili, diced (or 1 small can roasted green chili)

• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts

• ¼ cup packed brown sugar

• ½ teaspoon Chinese Five Spice (or any warm spices)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• Piloncillo or deco sugar

INSTRUCTIONS

For the Crust:

Cut the butter into chunks, measure the flour and measure the water. Place all separately in the freezer for 20-30 minutes, then combine the flour and salt in a bowl. Cut butter into flour until small pieces remain. Add water in 1 tablespoon increments until dough just comes together. Shape into a disc and refrigerate for 20 minutes.

For the Chili Mixture:

In large bowl, mix together the brown sugar, spices, cornstarch and vanilla. Combine well. Add in the green chili and pine nuts and toss well to coat evenly.

TO ASSEMBLE:

01. Remove dough from the refrigerator and gently roll out so it is 2 inches larger than a cast iron pan. Gently transfer to the pan, then make an inner and outer circle of peach slices in the bottom, leaving a 1½ inch gap to the edge of the pan. Spoon the green chilis (without juice) into the ring around the edge of the slices, filling the void in the crust. Drizzle the juice over the peaches.

02. Gently fold the crust, folding in the edges every inch or two.  When the edges are all folded in, brush beaten egg around the top of the crust, then grate piloncillo or sprinkle deco sugar on top of the crust.

03. Bake on the bottom shelf of a preheated 375-degree oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust has browned evenly. Serve warm.

ARTICLE

BY

GATHER FOOD STUDIO

Backyard Chickens

Everything you need to get started on your backyard coop.

Chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in both suburban and urban areas during the last 20 years. Backyard chickens may seem to be an unsuspecting animal to keep as a pet but the tried and true egg producers are back in fashion as food costs are soaring and families are looking for more food independence in light of recent supply chain shortages. There’s a lot to like about raising chickens in your backyard. Surprisingly, chickens are relatively low maintenance. And bonus – unlike dogs, they don’t need to be bathed or groomed, and they don’t shed on your clothes or require training. Oh and bonus – they make you breakfast.

The eggs from backyard chickens are the best—tastier and fresher than any store-bought eggs. Much of the day, the birds entertain themselves, picking at grass, worms, beetles, and all of the good things that go into making those delicious farm eggs. Plus, with their keen eye for insect pests, chickens make for great gardening companions.

Chickens can provide family companionship, fun, entertainment, sustainable fresh food, and plenty of poop that gardeners prize as a natural fertilizer/composting material. Could backyard chickens be the perfect pet/producer to add to your home?

Backyard Chicken Q&A:

HOW MANY CHICKENS SHOULD I KEEP?

Chickens are sociable creatures, so plan to keep three to six birds at least. With this amount, you’ll always have a steady supply of eggs, since an adult hen lays about two eggs every three days, on average. Local ordinances also dictate how many chickens one household can keep.

HOW MUCH DOES KEEPING CHICKENS COST?

All of this costs money, of course. The materials to build and furnish a coop and a 20 x 5-foot run—including wood, fencing, and hardware—are going to set you back at least $300. If you can’t do this work yourself, you’ll also be buying skilled labor.

Overall, expect to spend between $500 and $700 when getting started depending on the size of your flock, coop and run. For prefabricated coops, expect to pay $600 or more.

WHAT KIND OF SHELTER DO THEY NEED?

Chickens need to have an enclosed coop that provides adequate space, protection from the elements and predators, and good ventilation. A modified shed, barn, or stable with an outdoor run is a good option for a coop. The outdoor run should be fully enclosed if you have predators like hawks or owls nearby. Ideally, coops are slightly elevated off the ground to prevent flooding and have windows on each side, enough nest boxes to allow several chickens to nest simultaneously, outlets for lighting, fans if they’re needed, air inlets or ventilation holes on the roof, and a concrete floor treated with a pet-safe waterproof coating that allows for easy cleaning and drainage.

Want to go the fancy route?

Search Pinterest for “chicken coop building plans” if you’re building your own or consider going the luxury route with a gorgeous custom-built coop from a company like CutestCoops.com

WHEN DO CHICKENS START LAYING EGGS?

Most hens will start laying eggs when they’re about 18 to 20 weeks old, although it may take more time for them to reach their peak output. Often, the first eggs are laid irregularly or are smaller or oddly shaped when compared with a typical egg. This is nothing to worry about! Once a cycle is established, most hens will lay one egg per day.

events

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

AUGUST 3RD

Park Union Farmer's Market

PARK UNION | 4:00 PM

Park Union is a Thursday evening market in Downtown Colorado Springs. Located across from Weidner Field with outdoor and indoor space that allows you to shop local vendors, listen to live music, and grab some delicious food and drink options. Every Thursday evening through mid-September. downtowncs.com/venue/ park-union-near-weidner-field/

AUGUST 4TH

TITANIC: The Musical

ENT CENTER FOR THE ARTS | 7:00 PM

Colorado Springs Conservatory presents “TITANIC: The Musical.” Based on real people aboard the legendary ship, this musical is a stunning and stirring production focusing on the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of her passengers who each boarded with stories and personal ambitions of their own. The original Broadway production won five Tony Awards including Best Musical.  coloradospringsconservatory.org/ event/titanic-the-musical/2023-08-04/

AUGUST 8TH

Food Truck Tuesdays at the CSPM

COLORADO SPRINGS PIONEERS MUSEUM | 11:00 AM

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and the City of Colorado Springs host Food Truck Tuesdays from 11 am-1:30 pm through September 5. The 2023 line up: Bobby's World Cuisines, Lori Lynn’s Cookies and Cream, Lucy I’m Home, Lumpia House, Mateo’s Catering, Porkbutt BBQ, Roc and Ro Sushi on the Go, Sapo Guapo Tacos, Sosas Pupuseria and Tossed.www.cspm.org/programs-and-events/food-truck-tuesdays/

AUGUST 10TH

Chicago

PIKES PEAK CENTER | 7:30 PM

The legendary rock-and-roll band with horns, Chicago, came in as the highest charting American band in Billboard Magazine's Top 125 Artists of All Time. And Chicago is the first American rock band to chart Top 40 albums in six consecutive decades. Chicago released its 38th studio album, Born for this Moment in 2022. www. broadmoorworldarena.com/events/detail/chicago23

AUGUST 12TH

38th Mountain Arts Festival

MEMORIAL PARK, WOODLAND PARK | 10:00 AM

The 38th Mountain Arts Festival returns to Woodland Park for two days. It's free and includes a fishing pond, a small stream for little ones to splash in, and two large grassy areas for artists' booths. Flat paths make for easy walking. Spend the day admiring the art, listening to live music, eating great food and relaxing.  www. themountainartists.org/index.php?page=mountain-arts-festival

AUGUST 19TH

Health and Wellness Festival

WEIDNER FIELD | 7:00 AM

Switchbacks Entertainment is hosting a day of wellness for men, women and families. It begins with a 5k race and stair climb, followed by live music and yoga. The afternoon will have a rotation of guest speakers, popup classes every 30 minutes and a kids' zone. Free, except for a registration fee for those participating in the race. www.switchbacksfc.com/switchbacks-entertainment-announces-wellness-festival-at-weidner-field/

New Zealand Wine Dinner

UVA WINE BAR | 6:30 PM

New Zealand makes a range of critically well-regarded, cool-climate wines – from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay to Bordeaux blends and Syrah. Spread across two main islands, New Zealand has 10 major wine-growing regions. Experience wines from some of the little-known regions. Welcome wine followed by 3 courses paired with wine. $70 per person. www.uvawinebarcos.com/event-calenda r

Colorado Springs Comic Con

BROADMOOR WORLD ARENA | 3:00 PM

Get ready for the biggest pop culture convention in the Springs. This three-day event will feature celebrities from all genres of TV, movies and cartoons, some of big names in the comic art community, as well as great vendors with those hard-to-find toys, comics, and collectibles. www.cscomiccon.com/

School of Rock: The Musical

CITY AUDITORIUM | 7:00 PM

Based on the hit film, School of Rock follows Dewey Finn, a failed wannabe rock star. After Dewey is kicked out of his band, he intercepts a phone call meant for his flatmate. He decides to pose as his friend and takes a post at a prestigious prep school, where he makes it his mission to educate students about rock-nroll. communityculturalcollective.org/event/city-aud-sounds-school-of-rock-2/

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/ColoradoSprings

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To learn more about the ways we innovate in dementia care, come visit our community or call (719) 895-6989.

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