Wake up in Denver’s favorite neighborhood. Stay in one of five chic hotels and stroll through 16 sun-soaked blocks, lined with 300+ stylish boutiques and eateries. Book now at cherrycreeknorth.com/visit.
Home
Home.
Tiny word. Huge meaning.
What do you think of when you hear the word home ?
For me, it’s the place I dwell at the moment. It’s also myriad other things: my grandparents’ lake cabin during my childhood years, the town where I went to college, the homes where I grew up, even my family’s little RV.
It’s those special places where bits of our hearts take up residence and decide to stay. The spots that we likely will think about in our final moments on earth. The bright corners of our individual worlds that bring our minds peace.
Home doesn’t have to be four walls. It can be a favorite beach, a quiet spot in the Rocky Mountains or even a tucked-away table in a cozy coffee shop. Home is a feeling.
The March issue of Colorado Springs Lifestyle Magazine puts a focus on home.
Read about a soaring castle tucked into the mountains of Colorado, constructed single-handedly over several decades by one man. Check out an Old Colorado City plant shop with high-quality greenery and lots of unexpected whimsy, as well as a window and door company that boasts a long history of exceeding expectations.
Love art? Learn about an artist who uses skulls and dried flowers to create oneof-a-kind works of art and about the iconic metal wind sculptures around town that were inspired by birds and weathervanes.
And finally… get the details on a local company that can help you level up the food at your next gathering.
Thanks for reading. Happy March from the crew here at Colorado Springs Lifestyle! ASHLEY
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Scott Barr | scott.barr@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Stephanie Barr | stephanie.barr@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Ashley Hamershock ashley.hamershock@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Cara Bukacek | coloradosprings@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ashley Hamershock, Rochelle Reeder, Kristian DePue, Cara Bukacek,
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bishop Castle, Tom Kimmell for Galleries of Contemporary Art at UCCS, Ren Creativ, Nacho Matrix, Pella Windows & Doors of Colorado Springs, The Broadmoor, Comito Design & Build, The Elan Studio, Mandie Roberts -Thistle and Pine Photography, The Board Gatherings, Love Wanders Wild, Mandy Penn Photography,
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Proverbs 3:5-6
THE BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE SHOULD BE AT HOME...
MEDIEVAL FORTRESS OF
the Front Range
A Towering Testament and Lasting Legacy to One Man’s Will
ARTICLE BY KRISTIAN DEPUE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BISHOP CASTLE
Southwest of Pueblo—nestled within the Wet Mountains of the San Isabel Forest—is a curious Colorado oddity rising right out of the Middle Ages: Bishop Castle, constructed single-handedly over several decades by the eccentric and imaginative Jim Bishop.
This stone and iron castle in Custer County began with the purchase of a parcel of land in 1959 for only $450—when Jim Bishop was only 15 years old. This is where he planned to eventually hunt and homestead. Eight years later, Bishop married his wife, Phoebe. Two years after their nuptials, he started building a home on the property he purchased a decade earlier. What began as a single-room stone cottage would mount to staggering proportions.
“My father started building a rock cottage in 1969,” says Daniel Bishop. “He spent 10 years clearing trees, cutting in a road, and fashioning a shed to stay in while constructing the cottage. It was a love for the mountains that brought him to the property. He chose rock as the base building material due to it being readily available in the creek beds and road ditches—and free for the taking.”
“By the spring of ‘73, rumors spread in the local communities of a castle being built near San Isabel,” continues Bishop. “These rumors took root in my dad's head, and he began building a castle. He said, ‘The people want a castle, and I'm going to build them a castle.’”
ONE-MAN PROJECT
An ironworker by trade, he spent weekends—primarily working in solitude—constructing what may now be the largest one-man architectural project in the States, and possibly the world.
Over five decades later, the citadel rises approximately 165 feet, comparable to a 16-story building, and features three full stories of interior rooms—including a grand ballroom, stained glass, soaring towers, and bridges offering expansive views. One of castle’s most distinctive curiosities is a fire-breathing dragon crafted from repurposed metal, fed from a wood stove within.
Throughout the construction process, Bishop encountered various challenges, including conflicts with government officials over the use of nearby rocks and unauthorized road signs guiding visitors to the site. Undeterred by these setbacks, he remained dedicated to his vision, persistently expanding and improving the castle.
NO ENTRY FEE
A visit to Bishop Castle can encompass a whole weekend, with the surrounding areas offering camping, hiking, horseback riding, dining, lodging and more. Bishop Castle itself welcomes reservations for wedding ceremonies.
As the chateau expanded in size, it also burgeoned in popularity. Bishop’s handmade signs drew curious sightseers into the forest to reach his feudal fortress just off State Highway 165 in Rye.
Courageous guests would climb the castle’s irregular stairs into Gothic turrets to reach soaring vantage points. Some visitors would brave the ironwork walkways to crest the peak of the peculiar palace—at their own risk
With no entry fee, guests were simply asked to make donations while visiting the extraordinary site.
While travelers and day-trippers explored his eccentric edifice, Bishop was often seen hauling stones, digging a moat or reinforcing walls. Occasionally, Bishop would bluntly share his unfiltered beliefs and political views with visitors.
Sadly, Jim Bishop breathed his last in November 2024, surrounded by friends and family. He was 80 years old. His spirit lives on, as he built not only a castle but a legacy in southern Colorado.
“My dad always had a desire to be self-governing,” says Daniel Bishop. “This thirst for freedom drove him to let people enjoy the castle anyway they wanted. The castle has always been available for people to enjoy free of charge. His wish was always for the castle to be a place of true freedom. As his first-born son and now caretaker here at the castle, I’m driven to carry on his legacy and run the daily operations as he spent his life insisting it be.”
Website: www.bishopcastle.org
Facebook: @BishopCastleColorado
Instagram: @The.Bishop.Castle
ARTICLE BY CARA BUKACEK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MANDIE ROBERTS - THISTLE AND PINE PHOTOGRAPHY
ONE-OF-A-KIND PIECES
Fields and Bones: Beautiful Artwork from Skulls and Dried Flowers
Leah Remacle, a hairstylist of 25 years, is a creative at heart.
“Working with the fiber of hair and head shapes has always been fascinating to me because there are so many ways to manipulate the hair,” Remacle says. “This has translated into many other aspects that I like to work with… finding ways to work with textiles, flowers and hair.”
INSPIRED BY AESTHETIC
Remacle has always appreciated the aesthetic of skulls embellished with flowers and moss. After receiving a broken cow skull from a friend, she decided to utilize a snowy day to create something beautiful. Her vision came to life and she was inspired to create more.
The cow skulls are sourced from a local business and many of her flowers come from her sister’s flower farm: Gather Mountain Blooms. She also orders some dried flowers from a company based out of Washington. In addition, Remacle forages on her own property for grasses, and other natural elements like sticks, twigs, mushrooms and leaves.
“I don’t like using fake flowers as I want it to look just like nature and dried flowers last for years as long as you take care of them,” Remacle says.
ARTISTIC PROCESS
The artistic process begins with prepping the skull. Remacle makes sure it is nice and clean and occasionally adds gold detailing. She does not glue anything to the skulls just in case the owner decides to remove the flowers. To affix the dried elements to the skull, she uses chicken wire and Spanish moss.
“I don’t always know the direction I am going until I start the process, all of which is a few bits of grass at a time until something starts to take shape,” Remacle says. “Then the flow process happens and that’s where it gets really fun.”
COLLABORATION
The skull and dried flower creations were recently featured at Gratitude in Old Colorado City. The pieces were displayed in the space from November through December as part of the First Friday Art Walk.
Remacle also collaborates with Gather Mountain Blooms, where she has artwork hanging in their farm store gift shop.
“I am always looking for collaborators!” she says. “In addition to making skull art, I also make a lot of wreaths, terrariums, dried floral arrangements for weddings, flower sunbursts and more.”
RETAIL
Every piece that Remacle creates is unique and one-of-a-kind. She is currently selling pieces through her Instagram pages, as well as at Leah Rey Hair Salon. She will also create custom pieces, if interested. She is unable to ship the items as they are very fragile. Local orders will be delivered
Facebook: @FieldsNBones# Instagram @LeyRemay | @FieldsNBones
Letting In Beauty
Colorado Springs is nestled at the base of America’s Mountain: Pikes Peak. The city was founded as a place of want, not of need. William Jackson Palmer, Colorado Springs’ founder, was surveying land for the railroad at a time when towns were developed around natural resources—not sheer beauty.
Colorado Springs was the exception. Palmer was captivated by the beauty of this place and continued to advocate for conservation of the flora and fauna that makes this place unique.
Colorado is generally considered a mountainous state, but is unique in that it also consists of high plains to the east and desert areas to the west in the Colorado Plateau region. This cool, semi-arid climate begs large temperature swings and boasts more than 300 days of high-altitude sunshine every year.
BRINGING THE OUTDOORS IN
Palmer wasn’t the only one to admire the beauty and uniqueness of Colorado. Musicians have been waxing poetic about the views for years in songs like “America the Beautiful” written in the late 1800s to “Rocky Mountain
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PELLA WINDOWS AND DOORS: A LONG TRADITION OF EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS
ARTICLE BY ROCHELLE REEDER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PELLA WINDOWS & DOORS, COMITO HOME & BUILD, THE BROADMOOR RESORT, THE ELAN STUDIO
High” in the 1970s and more recently “Good Life” in 2010. People still move to Colorado for its beauty and recreation–part of the draw is to be able to embrace the lifestyle and to bring the outdoors in.
Logistically, with the aforementioned climate challenges, this dream is easier said than done.
However, home builders like Comito Homes and iconic destinations like The Broadmoor Hotel have recognized these unique challenges and have risen to meet them with quality products.
QUALITY + LONGEVITY
Lauren Comito-Perrault of Comito Homes breaks it down: “We build luxury custom homes, and in those homes, our baseline is quality and longevity.” She goes on to explain that they choose products for those homes with the same expectation. “Pella windows
and doors are in line with the level of excellence we expect in our homes,” she states. “Quality, longevity, aesthetic, climate and altitude performance as well as the customer service and warranty are the reason we have had such a longstanding relationship with Pella.”
Similarly, Eric McCown of The Broadmoor explains how they use Pella windows and doors in their buildings to include the indoor pool and the west tower. He explains how Pella allows them “to maintain the same historical look, while also using modern technology.” He elaborates that the UV ratings on the glass not only provide privacy and protection; they also are an important consideration in maintaining the integrity of the indoor fabrics.
EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE
One common thread in each of these testimonies was the customer service that Pella offers.
Both Comito-Perrault and McCown pointed out that the customer service with the team at Pella is outstanding and although there are certainly competitors with similar products, Pella’s commitment to customer service is unparalleled. Paul Vanderploeg has worked for Pella since 1988. After listing the many features Pella windows and doors offer and reviewing some features that are unique to their product, he states something so seemingly simple that if it weren’t so profound, it might have gotten lost in the notes. He states it is the Pella standard never to simply meet expectations, but to exceed them. And therein lies the foundation on which the product stands.
MODERN FEATURES
So, yes. Pella is a product that seeks to meet all customers at their price point, providing modern features that excel in the Colorado climate while providing a wide array of aesthetics
to maintain the integrity and architecture of each home. They have sought out and implemented added features like the roll screen, indoor cleaning features, and dust-free blinds to enhance their product offerings as they see their products as an investment in a customer’s home.
Ultimately, while their product is synonymous with quality, it’s their exceptional service that truly sets them apart. With a dedicated service center and coordinators who are actively engaged in the market every day, along with daily customer support available to address any needs, Pella demonstrates through action their commitment to fostering strong relationships and bringing the outdoors in.
Website: www.pellamvp.com
Facebook: @PellaWindowsAndDoorsOfColoradoSprings
Instagram: @PellaColoradoSprings
YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME
Claim your home-away-from-home with a Garden of the Gods Club Membership. Choose a membership category fit just for your lifestyle. From our premier, award-winning golf course to exclusive access to our state-of-the-art fitness facilities, tennis and pickleball courts, awardwinning pools, and vibrant social events, our memberships cater to every lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking a social community or family-friendly activities, our range of memberships ensure there’s something for everyone.
Contact our Membership team at 719.520.4980 or tkalata@gardenofthegods resort.com for a free tour. Scan the QR code to learn more about our membership categories and hear testimonials from current Club Members.
STUDIO & RETAIL SHOP OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 9AM-5PM; SATURDAY 10AM-7PM 12245 VOYAGER PARKWAY, SUITE 174
AT JULIE KAY DESIGN STUDIO, WE BELIEVE INTERIOR DESIGN IS WAY MORE THAN JUST ARRANGING FURNITURE. IT'S ABOUT CRAFTING PERSONALIZED SPACES THAT REFLECT YOUR UNIQUE STYLE AND ENHANCE YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE. OUR EXPERT DESIGNERS WORK CLOSELY WITH YOU, GUIDING EVERY DECISION—FROM COLOR PALETTES TO LIGHTING SELECTIONS—ENSURING YOUR HOME IS BOTH FUNCTIONAL AND BEAUTIFUL. AT JULIE KAY DESIGN STUDIO, WE CREATE A VISION WORTH BRINGING TO LIFE, & MAKE THE DESIGN PROCESS ENJOYABLE ALONG THE WAY!
SCAN ME FOR MORE INFO!
Stress-Free Special Events
ARTICLE BY CARA BUKACEK PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE BOARD GATHERINGS, LOVE WANDERS WILD, MANDY PENN PHOTOGRAPHY
The Board Gatherings: Curating Special Moments with Delicious Food
Many gatherings revolve around food. Food brings us together, fosters connections, promotes a sense of community and encourages conversations. If you were to think about your favorite event or gathering, odds are, you remember the food.
Imagine your next gathering or event. Now imagine focusing on your event without the added stress of planning, shopping, cooking or presentation of food. This is exactly what DeJa Robinson, owner of The Board Gatherings, offers her clients.
Creating a Service
Robinson became interested in the culinary world as a child.
“My mom hosted several extravagant parties when I was growing up,” Robinson says. “She brought the ‘wow’ factor and I loved helping her decorate, cook and host. I also took many culinary classes in high school to grow my knowledge and learn techniques.”
The idea to start The Board Gatherings was inspired by her love of aesthetic food.
“I love pretty presentations of food. I also love a pretty table,” she says. “I started my business by offering charcuterie and tablescaping. I wanted to provide a hosting service to my clients so that they could focus on the reason behind their gathering.”
Ever-Evolving Business Model
Robinson decided to evolve her business in phases. Since starting her business, Robinson has added additional services to include picnics, grazing tables, a refrigerated charcuterie cart and workshops.
To take advantage of the natural beauty surrounding Colorado Springs, Robinson was inspired to add a picnic service. Clients may choose from a list of recommended outdoor spots or choose one of their own. Robinson arrives two hours early to set up a personalized table setting, floral arrangement, charcuterie and beverages. Additional add-ons like cake are also available. Robinson then leaves and awaits a text to come and clean up afterwards.
For large events, custom grazing tables were added. Clients can choose between flat lays or multileveled and can customize for baby showers, anniversaries, weddings, corporate events and holidays.
The refrigerated cart is perfect for customizable charcuterie boxes or curated pairings. Clients can build their own boxes or they can watch as a board is built in front of them.
CONTINUED >
Workshops were added for both private and public events. UVA Wine Bar utilizes the service for public events–typically, a drink, building a charcuterie board, and a discussion of wine pairings. Private events can be booked and customized for gatherings or corporate events.
Fresh ingredients are a priority for Robinson. All ingredients are purchased within 24 hours of an event.
“I build all of my boards around pairings. I will drive all over town for the perfect ingredients,” Robinson says. “As my business grows, I would like to include more ingredients from local growers and makers. It is important to me to support local and create relationships with fellow culinary businesses.”
Fresh and Local Future Goals
Robinson has set goals for the future. Because her business has expanded and her clientele is growing, her next priority is hiring more help.
“I have been a one-woman show with family and friends helping out, as needed,” she says. “I am now fortunate to need more help as my business grows. My long-term goal includes eventually opening my own brick and mortar space so that I can add additional services.”
Website: www.theboardgatherings.com
Instagram + Facebook: @TheBoardGatherings
MOVING METAL WORKS
ARTICLE
STARR KEMPF: MONUMENTAL SCULPTURES OF WIND AND WHIMSY
BY BY KRISTIAN DEPUE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM KIMMELL, FOR CONTEMPORARY ART AT UCCS
Towering, shiny creations stand tall on the edge of North Cheyenne Cañon Park. Made of aluminum and steel, they whimsically move in sync with the wind. These kinetic works of art are installed on the lawn of the late creator: Starr Gideon Kempf.
Kempf was a visionary artist renowned for these intricate sculptures animated by air.
EARLY LIFE + ART
Born in 1917, Kempf grew up on a quaint farm in Ohio, near the Swiss Mennonite village of Bluffton. Surrounded by a family of skilled blacksmiths and carpenters, he developed a firm foundation in forging, craftsmanship and engineering from a young age.
Kempf earned a scholarship to the Cleveland Institute of Art, where he excelled in painting and drawing. Following graduation, he served in the United States Air Corp during World War II, honing technical prowess and precision.
In 1942, he married Hedwig Roelen, a recent German immigrant and nurse at Penrose Hospital in Colorado Springs. Six years later, the couple acquired property in Cheyenne Cañon, where Kempf personally designed, constructed and furnished their family home.
ELEGANCE + ENGINEERING
In 1955, Kempf began fabricating bronze sculptures, which he sold to collectors. By ‘77, his artistic vision evolved into steel and aluminum wind sculptures, each requiring up to three years to complete—dynamic zephyr designs with mesmerizing displays of motion. Visually inspired by birds and weathervanes, the towers typically exceed 50 feet in height, blending elegance with engineering.
Kempf passed away in 1995, just short of 78 years of age. Today, in the garden of his former residence in the Cheyenne Cañon neighborhood, Kempf’s creations can be beheld for their graceful movement, engineering and striking visual appeal.
The seamless blend of aesthetics and engineering reflects Kempf’s background as both an artist and an aviation technician. His sculptures often mimic organic forms such as wings, feathers and celestial elements, evoking a sense of harmony between nature and human ingenuity.
Each piece is meticulously balanced, allowing gentle breezes to breathe life into the sculptures. Their movements are not only captivating but meditative, inspiring awe and connection with the natural world.
SCULPTURES ON DISPLAY
Three sculptures—Sunrise Serenade, Metronome, and Space Needle —are on display at the Ent Center for the Arts on the UCCS campus. Additionally, a collection of Kempf’s kinetic sculptures can be observed along the trails at the Creekwalk shopping center in the Ivywild District.
Kempf’s creations remain a cherished part of Colorado Springs’ cultural identity. Visitors from around the world admire these kinetic eccentricities. His legacy endures today as a testament to the power of art in transforming spaces and inspiring wonder.
Website: gocadigital.org/outdoor-exhibitions/starr-kempf
Starr Kempf’s Kinetic Sculptures:
• 2057 Pine Grove Ave.
• Ent Center for the Arts | 5225 N. Nevada Ave.
• Creekwalk | 100 E. Cheyenne Rd. + S. Nevada Avenue
Actual Porcelain Veneer Patient
DR. HALL
Plants, Tutelage, Workshops + Whimsy
Hapke’s Hortum: A Plant Boutique and So Much More
Phytophilia – PHYTO, from the Greek phyton , means plant; PHILIA, from the Green philia , means love or passion for. A phytofile is a person who is especially interested in plants.
Clay Hapke, a skilled phytofile, had so many plants in his home that his friends told him that that he should open a plant store. His wife, Lauren McKenzie, owner of Ren Creative, has a talent for design and marketing.
TURNING DREAMS INTO REALITY
“We kicked around the idea of doing a mobile plant shop as a side gig,” McKenzie says. “We both had successful careers and initially just wanted to do pop-up events. As fate would have it, a friend of ours had a retail space available in Old Colorado City. We really had to think about it because at least one of us would have to leave our “safe career” and neither of us had experience running a retail business. In the end, we decided to take the leap.”
ARTICLE BY CARA BUKACEK | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY REN CREATIV
Hapke’s Hortum was a name that the couple came up with in the dreaming phase of their business.
“We discussed a few names and Lauren loved Hapke’s Hortum the best,” Hapke says. “It just flowed with my last name and Hortum is loosely translated from the Latin word hortus which means garden.”
The space, located on Colorado Avenue, needed a total buildout. It was previously a bar and it wasn’t fitting the plant boutique vibe. Hapke and McKenzie designed a vibrant and inviting space with warm lighting, plant and gift displays, and lots of unexpected whimsy.
CURATING THE GOODS
Hapke did extensive research to find plant wholesalers that would allow him to hand-pick and curate the plants for the boutique. He wanted rare, uncommon, and exotic specimens that would draw people in to shop for their own plant collections.
“When it comes to selecting plants, there are things you will see in person that you wouldn’t see on a sales sheet,” Hapke says. “I am particular about the quality, health, and overall look of the plants I select for my store. I want people to see the value in purchasing from our plant boutique versus big box stores.”
In addition to plants, Hapke’s Hortum also sells planting vessels, tongue-in-cheek décor, plant supplies, and plant embellishments like tiny hats and other ornamentation. Even if you’re not into plants or are a self-professed “black thumb,” you will find something in this boutique that will inspire a purchase.
PLANT TUTELAGE
In addition to selling plants, Hapke is passionate about educating his customers about all things plant related.
“I consider it a privilege to help my customers pick out plants,” Hapke says. “I ask questions to gauge their comfort and skill level with plants and help them pick a plant that they can successfully take care of. Customer service is also very important for us. If for some reason there is an issue with a plant, I offer tips to help to correct the issue or offer an exchange, if necessary.”
WORKSHOPS + PRIVATE EVENTS
Hapke’s Hortum offers workshops that combine plants and creativity. Some examples include terrarium construction, moss frames, staghorn fern mounting, pot painting and repotting classes.
The workshops aren’t just limited to plants.
Lauren is very artistic and also likes to collect vintage items. She has created workshops utilizing some of her favorite collections including framed vintage matchbooks and collaging items from vintage magazines.
In addition to workshops, Hapke’s Hortum hosts private events for corporate team building, celebrations and large group private workshops.
Website: www.hapkeshortum.com Facebook + Instagram: @HapkesHortum
You’re In Luck
UNIVERSAL APPEAL
NACHO MATRIX: PROVIDING INFINITE VARIATIONS OF A FOODIE CLASSIC
ARTICLE BY CARA BUKACEK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NACHO MATRIX
“WE ARE VERY PROUD OF THE FACT THAT OUR MARGARITAS ARE SCRATCH MADE, UTILIZING FRESH INGREDIENTS AND NO MIXES, EVER.”
Tyler and Jenny Sherman are no strangers to the Colorado Springs food scene. Their restaurant, Odyssey Gastropub, celebrates 10 years of serving innovative seasonal dishes and handcrafted cocktails. With their success and experience as proprietors, they decided to open another inspired dining concept.
“We had been kicking the idea around for 7-8 years,” Tyler says. “Nachos have universal appeal and are so customizable. We wanted to offer both traditional and nontraditional versions that could be easily modified to meet all dietary needs. Nachos have the potential to be inclusive for everyone.”
LOCATION IS EVERYTHING
Located next to Goat Patch Brewing in the Lincoln Center, they have a steady stream of hungry—and thirsty—patrons. What goes better with nachos than a cold beer? If beer isn’t your thing, they also offer a full bar and non-alcoholic options. They offer a daily happy hour with drink and food deals, as well as daily food specials.
“We have one of the best house margaritas deals in town,” Jenny says. “We are very proud of the fact that our margaritas are scratch made, utilizing fresh ingredients and no mixes, ever.”
The space is vibrant and full of natural light with live plants on every table. They also offer patio seating with shade umbrellas in the warmer months.
MORE THAN JUST NACHOS
Nachos are the star of the show and the menu offers a list of chef-created signature recipes that can also be enjoyed as a burrito. In addition, there is a buildyour-own nacho option. Guests are provided with list of all ingredients and are invited to customize their perfect pile of nacho nirvana.
To maintain the spirit of inclusive dining, Nacho Matrix also offers a variety of appetizers, street eats, and lighter fare including salad, soup and seared ahi. They also offer a kid-friendly menu with smaller portions and less adventurous toppings.
If you have special dietary needs, Nacho Matrix offers gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
CATERING & PARTIES
Planning an event and not sure what to feed your guests? Nacho Matrix offers catering services for both small and large gatherings. If you need a space to host your next event, Nacho Matrix also welcomes group reservations and can accommodate private parties.
Website: nachomatrix.com
Instagram + Facebook: @NachoMatrix
A Healthier Margarita
DISCOVER THE DELICIOUS FRESH TASTE OF A CLASSIC MARGARITA MADE WITHOUT SUGARY MIXERS
ARTICLE BY ANA MEYER
Whether you’re hosting a pool party or simply enjoy sipping the sweet and tartness of an amazing Margarita, this healthier version with these natural ingredients is sure to make your palate happy. This is all fresh ingredients, no mixers. It’s just as easy, much cleaner and better for you!
INGREDIENTS
• 2 oz. Casamigos Reposado or Blanco Tequila
• 1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
• .25 oz. Fresh Orange Juice
• .5 oz. Agave Nectar
• .5 oz. Orange Liqueur
• Garnish with a lime wheel through a skewer
INSTRUCTIONS
• Combine all ingredients into a tin shaker.
• Add ice, shake vigorously and strain into rocks glass.
• Add fresh ice and garnish.
LUNCH & WEEKEND BRUNCH AT JAX.
From our famous chargrilled oysters to our crispy fish sandwich there’s a midday pick me up craving just for you.
Planting Spring Flowers
Helpful tips for planting spring flowers
Sun-Loving Plants:
Spring is here! We compiled a list of flowers that - depending on your planting zone - can be planted in the season.
Plumbago
Has beautiful dark blue or white flowers on a large shrub of 3 to 5 feet. This tends to freeze down in winter and comes back from roots in the spring.
Hibiscus
The tropical variety will not survive the winters so move those pots inside. The plant can get up to 5 feet tall and there are many different colors and varieties. The perennial varieties will freeze to the ground but come back in the spring. The variety Moy Grande is known as the dinner plate hibiscus. The Texas star hibiscus has beautiful flowers in red or white.
Bougainvillea
These colorful plants can be planted in baskets and pots, not in water-logged or low areas where water might collect. They will grow best when given enough space to spread out, and should be planted in an area that will allow them a minimum of 5-6 hours of sunlight every day. Colors include orange, pink, purple, white, red, tangerine and fuschia to name a few.
Purslane
This is great in baskets for trailing leaves with lots of colors. The bees love it!
Butterfly Weed
This 3 to 4-foot bush is a must for monarch lovers. Monarchs feed on the leaves before making their cocoons. It has beautiful orange and yellow flowers.
ARTICLE BY LORI HAWKINS
Shade-Loving Plants:
Lantana
This is a great hot weather plant that comes in many colors and varieties. Trailing varieties only get about 1 foot tall but can get 3 to 4 feet wide. There are bush varieties that get 4 feet tall and dwarf bushes only get about 2 feet tall. It comes in yellows, purples, reds, oranges, pinks, fuschia, and many others.
Greggs Blue Mist
This fuzzy light blue flower is a butterfly favorite.
Pentas
This is another bee and butterfly favorite that grows about 10 to 12 inches tall. There is a graffiti variety in different colors that works in beds or pots.
Vinca/Periwinkle
This plant comes in upright or trailing varieties. There are many colors to choose from: lavender, white with a red center, peach, white and red, pink to strawberry.
Sages
There are many varieties of sage. The Texas sage is a shrub that has beautiful lavender flowers - a favorite for bees. They usually bloom around the time it rains. Henry Duelberg variety is a smaller bush 18 to 20 inches tall with blue stalks of blooms. Russian Sage is a tall silver lacey foliage with light blue flower spikes and grows to 4 feet tall. Deer tend to stay away from most of the sages.
Turk’s Cap
This plant makes a large bush of red or pink flowers. It has low water needs once established and can tolerate drought conditions and hot temperatures. Prune back plant in winter if it gets too leggy.
Impatiens
These need more water than most other plants and come in many colors. They are valued for their vibrant colors, abundant blooms, and tolerance for shade.
Caladiums
With lush multicolored leaves, many larger than the palm of your hand, caladiums have become one of the most popular foliage plants for shady or semi-shady gardens—with many recent introductions being sun tolerant.
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Your local, licensed sales agent can help you explore your options and see if you’re eligible to enroll in one of Humana’s affordable Medicare Advantage plans upon retirement. Get the benefits you want and need so you can focus on making your retirement what you want it to be— and enjoying the things you love.
From helping you find a doctor to arranging a ride to an appointment, Humana strives to go above and beyond to help you get the healthcare you need. That’s called human care.
A more human way to healthcare™
Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization and a standalone prescription drug plan 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).
MARCH 1ST
Salem's Daughter
Fountain YMCA Building, 326 Alabama Avenue | 6:00 PM
In 1621, Sarah Brooks was tried as a witch and sentenced to death. Her curse haunts those who disturbed her rest. Now, six high school seniors party at Heather's house, built on the witches' burial hill. Heather invites a new girl, Sarah. But is she the resurrected witch? Runs through March 8. www.onthestage.tickets/show/fountain-community-theater/67800d6256dc501088303d76
MARCH 4TH
The Banff Film Festival World Tour 2025
Stargazers Theatre | 7:00 PM
Mountain Chalet is hosting three nights of fresh films to invigorate you, motivate you, captivate you. Different films each night at Stargazers Theatre. These special evenings support the excellent work of a local non-profit, Rocky Mountain Field Institute. Nature heals the soul; these films touch the heart and mind. Runs through March 6. mtnchalet.com/products/banff-mountain-film-festival-tickets?variant=42339074637926
MARCH 6TH
ÉLÉGIE with CELLISTA
Millibo Art Theatre | 7:30 PM
A one-hour stage poem starring Cellista as Élégie, a blackbird who shape shifts into human form. Élégie awakens one day to find her city's entire population has disappeared. Citizens have left behind a city of altars, decorated with unlit candles; each containing the memories and mementos of the banished citizens. Élégie shape shifts into human form to find out what happened. Runs through March 9. themat.org/elegie-with-cellista
MARCH 8TH
Firkin Fest 2025
Ivywild School Gym | 12:00 PM
Bristol Brewing Company presents the 18th annual Firkin Fest, a cask ale celebration to benefit the Colorado Brewers Guild. Head on down to the historic Ivywild Gym and drink cask-conditioned ales from your favorite Colorado breweries, with beer styles ranging from traditional to eccentric and everything in between. events.humanitix.com/firkin-fest-2025
MARCH 8TH
Women of the World: International Fashion Show
Olympic Training Center | 2:00 PM
Spend an unforgettable afternoon at the Olympic Training Center, celebrating Women of the World: A Celebration of Culture. Experience a culturally rich journey featuring beautiful fashion and captivating performances from around the globe. This event will showcase the artistry of local female designers, traditional regalia, and modern styles that reflect the beauty and diversity of women. www.eventbrite.com/e/women-of-the-world-an-international-fashion-show-tickets-1120907617859?aff=oddtdtcreator
MARCH 8TH
Harlem Globetrotters
Broadmoor World Arena | 2:00 PM
You love the dunks, alley-oops, looooong shots, magic, history and laughs! You’ll see all the amazing basketball spins, slams, and dunks that you’ve come to expect at every Harlem Globetrotters game, plus new trials as players face-off to see who can pull off astonishing trick shots and more! www.broadmoorworldarena.com/events/detail/harlem25
MARCH 11TH
Guided Tour: “CREATE”ing in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum | 1:30 PM
Throughout its history, the Pikes Peak region has inspired creativity among the people who have called it home. From the dramatic silent film performances of Lon Chaney to the contemporary beadwork of Southern Ute artist Debra Box, guests will explore the complexity, diversity and uniqueness of the Pikes Peak region. Multiple dates. Please RSVP. www.cspm.org/events/guided-tour-createing-in-colorado-springs-03-11
MARCH 13TH
Marie Antoinette
ENT Center for the Arts | 7:30 PM
A wild romp in towering wigs and haute couture, Marie Antoinette follows the fall of the famous French queen. David Adjmi’s cuttingly funny play takes a stunning new perspective on the French revolution, providing a sharp commentary on how the forces of history work upon us, the way we create our leaders, and what it means to revolt. Runs through March 23. tickets.entcenterforthearts.org/5001/5003
MARCH 18TH
Wines of Greece
UVA Wine Bar | 6:30 PM
Greece is one of the world's oldest wine-producing regions. With a diverse landscape and numerous indigenous grape varieties, Greek wines offer a unique and exciting range of flavors, from crisp and refreshing whites to robust and complex reds. Explore the vibrant world of Greek wine and discover hidden gems that will tantalize your taste buds. Welcome wine followed by three courses paired with wine. www.uvawinebarcos.com/event-details-registration/wines-of-greece
MARCH 24TH
Annie
Pikes Peak Center | 7:30 PM
Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now this beloved musical is set to return in a new production–just when we need it most. Runs through March 26. www.pikespeakcenter.com/events/detail/bway-annie
MARCH 28TH
Power On Con
Weidner Field | 12:00 PM
1980s kids, Captain Power fans, sci-fi lovers and classic gamers: This event is for you! This is the premier sci-fi convention and toy show, focused on the television show and toys of Captain Power! Don't miss the VIP events for access and experiences with Captain Power, himself: Tim Dunigan! Events will include the classic gaming championships and more! Runs through March 30. www.poweroncon.com
JUNE 25TH - 29TH
US Senior Open Championship
The Broadmoor
Tickets and volunteer registration now available for the 45th U.S. Senior Open Championship from June 25-29 at The Broadmoor Golf Club. The East Course was designed by Donald Ross and opened for play in 1918. It is now a combination of holes from Ross' original layout and holes designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1952. www.broadmoor.com/usso2025
Game Night 2025 Jersey Reveal
