Best of the Springs 2016

$4.95

SUNDAY, APRIL 17, 2016

BEST OF THE SPRINGS DINE 10 • A&E 50 • CITY LIFE 60 • FAMILY 106 • SHOP 114 • SPORTS & REC 130

BEST OF

THE SPRINGS Colorado Springs is known for producing medal winners. It is, after all, home to the U.S. Olympic Committee, one of three official U.S. Olympic Training Centers and a couple of dozen national sports organizations, including USA Hockey, USA Cycling and USA Volleyball.

We also produce award-winning beer, enjoy world-class hiking and biking trails and have fostered podium-worthy chefs.

This 22nd annual Best of the Springs magazine pays tribute to our status as a world-class community.

In these pages — and in the digital version of this magazine — you’ll find more than 300 staff and reader picks for the region’s “best” people, places and products, including chicken wings, mechanic, hiking trail and toy store.

Where did the nominations come from? You! If your favorite hair stylist, restaurant or biking trail is missing, join the nomination process in the fall. Watch for notices in The Gazette and at gazette.com.

Take it with you Go to www.thebestofthesprings.com and you’ll find an electronic version of Best of the Springs that you can use when you’re on the hunt for the perfect place to spend an afternoon, be it a hiking trail, beer patio or play date with your kids.

From burgers and fries to markets for spices and organic produce, foodies rate the best of the best.

A&E: Starts on Page 50

City Life: Starts on Page 60

Who your neighbors rely on to get the job done, whether the car needs repaired or there’s a wedding cake that needs to wow a bride-to-be.

Family: Starts on Page 106

There are hundreds of places to spend time with your family; these selections are definitely worth your attention.

Shopping: Starts on Page 114

Looking for antiques? Baby clothes? Sports gear? We’ve got you covered.

Sports & Rec: Starts on Page 130

Get going: Whatever the season, there’s always something fun to do in the Pikes Peak region.

ON THE COVER

Cover by Nichole Montanez 6 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

PUBLISHER Dan Steever EDITOR Vince Bzdek VP OF ADVERTISING Wanda Artus-Cooper MARKETING MANAGER Rudy Vasquez DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Vicki Cederholm VP OF IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT Stephanie Weber

BEST OF THE SPRINGS CREDITS SECTION EDITOR Dena Rosenberry, Catalyst Creative WRITERS AND EXPERTS Stephanie Earls Teresa Farney Sean Holveck Jen Mulson Linda Navarro Jakob Rodgers Dena Rosenberry

Dining: Starts on Page 10

See what tops our arts and culture scene, from local bands and artists to museums and theatrical shows.

THE GAZETTE LEADERSHIP TEAM

DESIGNER Nichole Montanez COPY EDITORS Bill Radford Josh Swearngin PHOTOGRAPHERS Jerilee Bennett Jeff Kearney Carol Lawrence Christian Murdock Mark Reis Stacie Scott COVER AND SECTION COVER CREDITS Nichole Montanez

Elite 25 REALTORS®100s of Satisfied Home Owners Colorado Springs Most Exclusive Listings TO LEARN MORE OR TO PREVIEW HOMES FOR SALE VISIT:

www.Elite-25.com

Bruce Betts Team

Karen Bluemel

Barry Boals

Brian Boals

Claire Boynton

Susie Chambless

719-548-8600

719-650-7452

719-290-8500

719-459-9955

719-332-8360

719-229-7267

RE/MAX Advantage Realty, Inc

RE/MAX Properties, Inc.

RE/MAX Real Estate Group

RE/MAX Real Estate Group

If you are selling your home, check out some of the opportunities you’ll have when using an Elite 25 member!

The Platinum Group Realtors The Platinum Group Realtors

Joe Clement Team

719-576-5000 RE/MAX Properties, Inc.

Camellia Coray

Jason Daniels

Keith Hays

Donna Hilderbrand

719-359-0014

719-299-0002

719-339-8909

719-785-4110

719-492-1751

719-650-7600

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

RE/MAX Millennium

Berkshire Hathaway

Berkshire Hathaway

Berkshire Hathaway

RE/MAX Properties, Inc.

JoAnn Gadkowski Becky Gloriod Team

1. Your home

Suzanne Holland

Bill Hourigan

Alphie Hutmacher

Trish Ingels

Laura Kaan

Linda Lafferty

719-331-0192

719-332-8569

719-232-8320

719-785-4141

719-200-4044

719-332-0405

The Platinum Group Realtors

The Platinum Group Realtors

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Berkshire Hathaway

The Platinum Group Realtors

The Platinum Group Realtors

may be previewed by all Elite 25 members!

Mike MacGuire

Jill McFeron

Kevin Patterson

Steve Prewitt

Bobbi Price & Jade Edmisten

Debbie Reardon

Randy Reynolds

719-536-4324

719-648-3821

719-575-1200

719-439-0241

719-499-9451

719-955-8525

719-575-1434

The Platinum Group Realtors

RE/MAX Properties, Inc.

The Patterson Group

RE/MAX Advantage

The Platinum Group Realtors

The Platinum Group Realtors

Berkshire Hathaway

Nancy Rusinak

Eric Scott

Terri Strecker

Bianca Taylor

Jean & John Wheaton

Alan Wilaby

719-590-6110

719-578-8800

719-641-3329

719-229-6488

719-536-4581

719-338-1100

Rusinak Real Estate

ERA Shields Real Estate

RE/MAX Properties, Inc.

ERA Shields Real Estate

RE/MAX Properties, Inc.

ERA Shields Real Estate

2. Your home

may be advertised on the Elite 25 website!

B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING BEGINS ON PAGE 10

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

CITY LIFE BEGINS ON PAGE 60

BEGINS ON PAGE 50

JEFF KEARNEY JEFF KEARNEY

READERS’ PICKS

READERS’ PICKS Al Fresco .......................... 14 Bakery ............................. 14 Bar ................................... 14 Barbecue ......................... 16 Barbecue Ribs ................. 16 Bartender ........................ 16 Breakfast ......................... 16 Brew Pub ......................... 18 Brewery ........................... 18 Buffet ............................... 18 Burger ..............................20 Burrito ..............................20 Business Lunch................ 20 Cajun................................ 20 Cake ................................. 21 Candy Shop ..................... 21 Casual Dining ...................22 Caterer .............................22 Cheesecake .....................22 Chef .................................23 Chicken Wings ................. 23 Chinese ............................24 Coffee Shop .....................24 Colorado Beer ..................24 Colorado Cuisine .............. 24 Deli ...................................24 Dessert ............................25 Diner ................................25 Enchilada .........................26 Fine Dining ....................... 26 Fish Taco ..........................28 Food Truck ....................... 28 Food With a View .............29 French ..............................29 French Onion Soup ...........29 Fried Chicken ...................30 Fries................................. 30 Frozen Yogurt ...................30 German ............................ 31 Gluten Free ....................... 31 Green Chili ........................32 Gyro ................................. 34 Hawaiian ..........................34 Hot Dog ............................35 Huevos Rancheros ...........35

Ice Cream .........................36 Indian ............................... 37 Irish .................................. 37 Italian ...............................38 Jamaican .......................... 38 Japanese ..........................38 Korean .............................38 Lasagna ...........................38 Margarita .........................38 Mexican ............................39 Middle Eastern .................39 Mobile Food ..................... 40 New Restaurant ............... 40 Pad Thai ...........................40 Philly Cheesesteak ........... 41 Pho Bowl .......................... 41 Pie ....................................42 Pizza ................................ 42 Prime Rib .........................42 Red Chili ........................... 42 Restaurant After Midnight 42 Restaurant for Anniversaries ...................43 Restaurant for a First Date 44 Restaurant for Kids ..........44 Restaurant for Vegetarians 44 Restaurant Service ..........44 Restaurant for the Military 44 Sandwich .........................45 Seafood ...........................45 Spaghetti ......................... 46 Sports Bar .......................46 Steak ............................... 46 Subs ................................ 46 Sunday Brunch ................46 Sushi ................................ 47 Sushi Roll ......................... 47 Tamales ............................ 47 Taqueria ...........................48 Tempura ...........................48 Thai ..................................48 Truffles .............................48 Vietnamese ...................... 48 Wine List ..........................48

EXPERT PICKS PAGE 12 8 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

JEFF KEARNEY

READERS’ PICKS Actor ................................53 Actress ............................53 Artist ................................53 Commercial gallery .......... 54 Dance studio for adults ....54 Dance studio for kids ....... 54 Downtown event ..............54 Fine arts photographer ....55 Local band .......................55 Local festival ....................56 Mover and shaker ............ 56 Movie theater ...................56

Museum ...........................56 Museum exhibit ................ 56 Music venue ..................... 57 Musical ............................. 57 Nonprofit artist ................ 57 Nonprofit arts group ........ 58 Pianist ..............................58 Play .................................. 58 Theater company ............. 58

EXPERT PICKS PAGES 51-52

Acupuncturist ..................66 Ad agency ........................ 66 Animal hospital/veterinarian .

68 Auction .............................68 Bank .................................69 Bar with Live Music ..........69 Bed & Breakfast ...............70 Body Shop .......................70 Car wash ..........................70 Casino ............................... 71 Chiropractor .....................71 Cleaning company ............ 72 Computer repair shop ...... 72 Dance club ....................... 73 Day spa ............................ 73 Dental practice ................. 73 Dentistry for kids ............. 74 Dog trainer ....................... 74 Doggy day care ................ 76 Electrician ........................ 76 Establishment for Broncos 77 Event DJ ........................... 78 Eye care/optometrist ....... 78 Financial planner ..............80 Franchised real estate office 80 Fun way to support charity 81 Hair salon......................... 81 Handyman/Fix-it contractor .

82 Hauling company ..............82 Health and nutrition club ..82 Homebuilder .....................82 Home care company ........83 Hookah bar ......................83 Hotel ................................83 House painter .................. 83 Impressive outing .............84 In home care provider ......84 Independent real estate office 84 Insurance company ..........85 Karaoke bar .....................85 Landscaper ......................86 Law firm ...........................86 Lawyer .............................86 Massage therapist ........... 87 Mechanic ......................... 87

Medical practice .............. 87 Mortgage company ..........88 Nail salon ..........................88 Neighborhood ..................88 Nonprofit ..........................90 Pediatric practice .............90 Person who makes a difference .........................92 Personal trainer ...............92 Pet boarding .....................92 Pet groomer .....................93 Pet rescue ........................93 Philanthropic business .....94 Physical therapy practice 94 Place to play pool .............94 Place to propose ..............96 Place to volunteer ............96 Plumber ........................... 96 Portrait photographer ...... 97 Radio personalities .......... 97 Radio sports show ........... 97 Radio station ....................98 Real estate - relocation .... 98 Realtor .............................99 Relocation office .............. 99 Remodeling company....... 99 Residential development ..99 Retirement home ............ 100 Shoe repair .................... 100 Tailor .............................. 100 Tattoo parlor ...................101 Tax preparer ....................101 Title company................. 102 Trash company .............. 102 Travel agency ................. 102 TV anchor ...................... 102 TV news show ............... 103 TV sports guy ................ 103 TV weather anchor ........ 103 Veterinary practice ........ 104 Video production ............ 104 Volunteer ........................ 104 Wedding cake ................. 104 Wedding DJ .................... 104 Wedding photographer .. 104 Wedding planner ............ 105 Wedding venue ............... 105 Window treatment ......... 105

EXPERT PICKS PAGES 62-63

FAMILY

SHOPPING

SPORTS & REC

BEGINS ON PAGE 106

BEGINS ON PAGE 114

BEGINS ON PAGE 130

JEFF KEARNEY

READERS’ PICKS JEFF KEARNEY

READERS’ PICKS After school program ..... 109 Arts summer camp ........ 109 Christian summer camp . 109 College for associate degree 109 College for bachelor’s or master’s degree ............. 109 Continuing education ......110 Day care center ..............110 Elementary school ..........110

Family fun center ............110 High school ......................111 Home school ....................111 Middle school ..................112 Place for birthday ...........112 Preschool ........................112 Summer day camp ..........112 Technical school ..............113 Teen hangout ...................113 Tutoring program .............113

EXPERT PICKS PAGES 107-108

Antiques .......................... 117 Baby shop ....................... 117 Beer selection ................. 117 Bike shop ........................118 Bookstore .......................118 Butcher ...........................118 Car dealer for military .....119 Car dealer - new .............119 Car dealer - used ............ 119 Children’s clothing .......... 120 Department store ........... 120 Eyeglasses ..................... 120 Florist ............................. 120 Furniture store ............... 120 Hardware store .............. 121 Health food .....................121 Hobby shop .....................121 Homebrew/Wine making 122 Jeweler .......................... 122 Kitchen store .................. 123 Liquor store ................... 123

Mattress store ............... 123 Men’s fashion ................. 123 Natural meat market ...... 124 New store ...................... 124 Pet store ........................ 124 Photo equipment ............ 124 Place to buy a gun .......... 126 Place to buy ammo ........ 126 Plant nursery ................. 126 Resale/Consignment shop 126 Shoe store ..................... 126 Shopping center ..............127 Spice store ......................127 Sporting goods .............. 128 Supermarket .................. 128 Thrift store ...................... 128 Toy store ........................ 128 Used media .................... 128 Video game store ........... 128 Wine store ...................... 128 Women’s fashion ............ 128

EXPERT PICKS PAGES 115-116

LEO GULLICKSON

READERS’ PICKS Animal at a store .............131 Best trail .........................131 Best trail for beginners ...131 Bowling alley .................. 133 City park ........................ 133 Climbing wall .................. 133 Coach — high school ....... 134 Colorado campground ... 134 Colorado ski area ........... 134 Colorado sports mascot 134 Exercise classes ............ 134 Golf course ..................... 135 Gym ................................ 135 Health club ..................... 135

Hike with little ones ........ 135 Ice rink ........................... 136 Lunchtime/after work hike 136 Martial arts .................... 136 Mountain bike trail .......... 136 Pilates .............................137 Place to skateboard ........137 Ski shop ..........................137 Swimming pool ................137 Urban trail .......................137 Yoga ................................137 Yoga teacher ...................137

EXPERT PICKS PAGE 132

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DINING 10 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

TOP 2016

PIKES PEAK REGION’S

Established in 2010 by

Title

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Is Your Realtor® a Peak Producer?

Nate Banet

Margi Barrutia

The Platinum Group 719-640-0274

Jodi Bohenna

Keller Williams Clients Choice 719-761-1545

Casey Clark

Keller Williams Partners 719-649-6271

Jennifer Crosby Keller Williams Clients Choice

719-291-3168

ERA Shields 719-238-1006

Scott Baughman

Claire Boynton

Tom Brunk

The Platinum Group 719-332-8360

Jerry Clark

Brunk and Brunk 719-330-0286

Scott Coddington

RE/MAX Advantage 719-761-0171

Pulse Real Estate Group 719-238-3536

Charles D’Alessio

Dianna Dalton-Daily

Synergy Realty Group 719-660-5223

Jennifer Erdley

RE/MAX Performance 719-339-4583

Caryn Becker

Real Estate Marketing Group Century 21 Curbow Realty 719-209-2299 719-233-2489

Mike Farrell

The Platinum Group 719-661-0270

Manitou Springs Real Estate 719-440-9989

Barry Boals & Will Miller Brian Boals Barry Boals Partners RE/MAX Real Estate Group RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-459-9955 719-534-7903

Rachel Buller

Tiffany Canady

Kevin R. Conolty

Cindy Constantino

Kenton Carew

Manitou Springs Real Estate Premier Real Estate Group Bennett-Shellenberger Realty 719-238-2979 719-491-0897 719-999-5789

RE/MAX Advantage 719-640-3232

Treasure Davis

RE/MAX Properties 719-201-6778

JoAnn Gadkowski Berkshire Hathaway 719-339-8909

Berkshire Hathaway 719-440-0122

Camellia Coray Coldwell Banker Residential

Benjamin Day Selley Group 719-331-9170

Michelle Garrigan

Bennett-Shellenberger Realty 719-367-0372

Ruth Gissa

719-359-0014

Tom Downing

The Platinum Group 719-291-5874

Gissa Real Estate 719-963-0808

Jeff Boals

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-460-5050

Susie Chambless The Platinum Group 719-229-7267

Chris Cowles

The Platinum Group 719-332-7507

Christy Dunfee

Keller Williams Partners 719-233-2208

Becky Gloriod

Berkshire Hathaway 719-229-9777

Learn More About Us At: w w w. T h e P e a k P r o d u c e r s . c o m B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: EXPERT PICKS

TOMATO BISQUE RED GRAVY 23 S. Tejon St., 635-7661, redgravyco.com

You’ll return again and again to Eric Brenner’s urban Italian-style eatery for a bowl of bisque. The dish helped him take home $18,000 as winner of “Guy’s Grocery Games,” a culinary competition hosted by Food Network personality Guy Fieri. The creamy bisque is created using olive oil, San Marzano tomatoes, heavy cream, basil and lots of garlic. The luscious soup is seasoned with just the right touch of cayenne. It’s almost impossible to put the spoon down.

UNCLE TED’S BISON AND PUEBLO GREEN CHILI PATTY MELT THE WAREHOUSE RESTAURANT 25 W. Cimarron St., 475-8880, thewarehouserestaurant.com

Yes, it’s that Ted — Ted Turner. And why not? James Africano, owner and chef at The Warehouse, worked at one of Turner’s bison ranches for almost 10 years before returning to Colorado Springs.

For this sandwich, like most of the dishes on his menu, ingredients are sourced as locally as possible. A huge, juicy bison patty, cooked medium rare, is topped with Colorado yellow cheddar, caramelized onions and a ladle of Pueblo green chili, then tucked between fat slices of toasted sourdough. Come as hungry as an Olympic wrestler.

HOMEMADE LASAGNA SWIRL WINE BAR 717 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-2294, swirlismybar.com

Need some carbs for peak performance? Turn to executive chef Jim Stone’s made-from-scratch pasta dish.

As a red sauce slowly simmers, he rolls lasagna noodles so thin and delicate you could read a newspaper through them. Then they’re filled with house-made ricotta, created from whole milk and cream.

If there were such a thing as lasagna soufflé this light and airy dish would be it. It’s only offered Tuesday evenings, so make a reservation early; the lasagna quickly sells out.

TOMATO BISQUE AT RED GRAVY

ON FOOD

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

FRIED VIDALIA ONION RINGS RESTAURANT 1858 AT SEVEN FALLS 6 Lake Ave., 1-844-843-1858, sevenfalls.com/1858-restaurant

TERESA FARNEY

If you’re reaching for a culinary version of the Olympic rings, you can’t do any better than these huge, crunchy, sweet snacks. Thick onion slices are soaked in buttermilk, then double dipped in panko breading and fried to perfection. They get a barbecue spice dusting just before arriving at the table piping hot. They are lip-smacking good on their own but are elevated to super deliciousness when dipped in housemade ranch dressing. Pickled jalapeños and red onion garnish round out the appetizer. teresa.farney@gazette.com/636-0271

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GRILLED CHICKEN, PORK, BEEF, AND SHRIMP VIETNAMESE SPRING ROLLS LEMONGRASS BISTRO 6840 N. Academy Blvd., 592-1391, restauranteur.com/lemongrassbistro

This jewel box of an Asian eatery is the perfect place if you like to play with your food: You can make your own spring rolls. Here’s how it works: Hot water and rice paper discs the size of dinner plates are delivered to your table. There’s also a dish of grilled meats on top of vermicelli noodles and a basket brimming with lettuce leaves, bean sprouts, herbs, thinly sliced carrots and cucumbers. This is when the fun begins. You place a rice paper disc into the water and spin it until it becomes soft. After removing it from the water, you add a small scoop of noodles, a few strips of meat, shrimp, herbs, a lettuce leaf, cucumber strips and bean sprouts — all to taste. (Don’t overstuff.)

Carefully roll the rice paper, tucking in the sides — not too tightly or the rice paper will split. Then dip the roll into spicy chili lime sauce and enjoy the mixture of flavors and textures.

Congratulations! You’ve just taken a trip to another land without the airfare.

TOP 2016

PIKES PEAK REGION’S

Established in 2010 by

Title

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Is Your Realtor® a Peak Producer?

Tara Gutierrez

Keller Williams Partners 719-499-1157

Donna Hilderbrand RE/MAX Properties 719-650-7600

Michael Harper & Tamara Buttery

Michael Harper Real Estate 719-687-1715

Todd Hawker

Action Team Realty 719-492-4580

Gytha & Karl Hinkle

Suzanne Holland The Platinum Group 719-331-0192

The Platinum Group 719-332-8569

Jeremy Isaac

Garrett Jones & Candice Graham 8Z Real Estate 719-360-2339

Coldwell Banker 1st Choice 719-439-1651

Keller Williams Partners 719-388-9405

Alphie Hutmacher

Coldwell Banker Residential 719-232-8320

Barbara Harris

Harris Group Realty 719-227-9900

Circa Real Estate Group 719-231-9043

Jamie Krakofsky

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-231-9544

Jennifer Lohrig Walston Group 719-290-6757

Amy Kunce-Martinez & Gary Martinez The Platinum Group 719-661-1199

Mike MacGuire

The Platinum Group 719-536-4324

Bill Hourigan

Shawn Keehn

Linda Lafferty

Jody Heffner

Bill Hays

Keller Williams Clients Choice

719-359-2370

Dzelal Hrustanovic Reunion Homes 719-499-5110

Stacey Lehner

RE/MAX Advantage 719-440-1010

Scott Huger

Kimberly & Andy Hunstiger RE/MAX Advantage 719-648-2078

Nicholas Scott Real Estate 719-659-2630

Stacy Kibler

Keller Williams Partners 719-440-1145

Laurie Klipfel

The Platinum Group 719-661-5353

Cheri Lesiak

The Platinum Group 719-955-8590

Saddle Up Realty 719-684-3457

Keller Williams Partners 719-209-5439

Vicki Maloney

Lenka Martin

Craig McConnell

Keller Williams Partners 719-510-8824

Lenka Martin 719-205-5248

Ann Heiring

The Platinum Group 719-331-6240

Avalar Real Estate 719-330-0695

David Knutzen

RE/MAX Performance 719-660-9812

Kimberly Lockett RE/MAX Properties 719-229-5208

Todd McLain

RE//MAX Properties 719-290-6734

Learn More About Us At: w w w. T h e P e a k P r o d u c e r s . c o m B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

AL FRESCO GOLD: HACIENDA COLORADO 5246 N. Nevada Ave., 418-7999, haciendacolorado.com

You can’t get a better view of the Front Range than here with patios surrounding the restaurant.

“Beautiful fire pits and view,” one voter commented.

SILVER: AMANDA’S FONDA BRONZE: THE MARGARITA AT PINE CREEK

BAKERY GOLD: BOONZAAIJER’S DUTCH BAKERY 610 E. Fillmore St., 264-0177, dutchpastry.com

This bakery is a favorite for its decadent, sweet treats. A voter called them “the most amazing things you can put in your mouth.” The house specialty is vanilla cake with Bavarian cream and raspberry filling and buttercream frosting. One voter summed it up, saying: “Simply the best, tastiest pastries, cakes and pies in the state of Colorado!”

SILVER: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY BRONZE: LA BAGUETTE

BAR GOLD: PHANTOM CANYON BREWING CO. 2 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 635-2800, phantomcanyon.com

This microbrewery has been a popular gathering place since opening in 1993 in a historic 1901 building downtown. Voters say there are many reasons this place wins gold year after year: “Best happy hour beer prices and terrific beer!” “They have awesome beers on tap and enticing happy hours deals. Also, their billiards area is nice and spacious.”

SILVER: THE PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE BRONZE: THE RABBIT HOLE

HACIENDA COLORADO

14 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

TOP 2016

PIKES PEAK REGION’S

Established in 2010 by

Title

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Is Your Realtor® a Peak Producer?

Mark McWilliams RE/MAX Properties 719-237-6455

Sue Myers

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-209-0364

Kevin Patterson

The Patterson Group 719-575-1200

Lana Rodriguez

RE/MAX Properties 719-644-8900

Derek Wagner

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-210-5258

Jeffrey Piggot

Mike Rosenhahn

Red Rock Realty 719-661-9614

The Platinum Group 719-491-1837

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-210-8433

Cherry Creek Properties 719-244-2696

Liz Snow-Wheeler

George S. Nehme

Darrell Wass

The Platinum Group 719-599-3451

Jason Roshek

Amie Streater

RE/MAX Advantage 719-216-2165

Bobbi Price & Jade Baker

Coldwell Banker 1st Choice 719-687-1534

Keller Williams Clients Choice 719-339-7224

Craig O’Boyle

O’Boyle Real Estate Group 719-576-7373

Nancy Rusinak

Tina Swonger

Chris and Mary Watson RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-233-7653

Debbie Reardon

The Platinum Group 719-499-4767

Rusinak Real Estate 719-590-6110

RE/MAX Properties 719-229-2153

Laura Owens

Saddle Up Realty 719-748-1212

Vicki Westapher

The Innovative Group 719-749-1744

Selley Group 719-337-9779

Lori Thompson

RE/MAX Properties 719-440-0514

Brandon Renaud & Louis Torres

Cherise Selley

RE/MAX Properties 719-332-1807

Matthew Pacheco

Cherry Creek Properties 719-433-2760

Monica Sharp

The Agency 719-440-6626

Jean Wheaton

RE/MAX Properties 719-536-4581

Lisa Robinson

RE/MAX Advantage 719-331-5999

The Platinum Group 719-659-2613

Rob Thompson

Elizabeth Palmer

Coldwell Banker Residential 719-650-4158

Brandon Smith

The Platinum Group 719-310-5798

Bryan Vail

RE/MAX Real Estate Group 719-330-8010

Dana Williams

RE/MAX Advantage 719-439-9411

Kelly Young

The Platinum Group 719-337-6043

Learn More About Us At: w w w. T h e P e a k P r o d u c e r s . c o m B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

BARBECUE GOLD: BIRD DOG BBQ Multiple locations, 573-7671, birddogbbq.com

Voters are passionate about this temple of ’cue. They can’t rave enough about the fried okra and smoked turkey and they also enjoy the traditional barbecue offerings. “Best in town at pulling pork and chopping brisket: they take the time to serve the meat, not the fat or gristle. Great smoked turkey. Fantastic baked beans,” one voter said. Another said, “Just yummy!”

SILVER: RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q BRONZE: FRONT RANGE BARBECUE

BARBECUE RIBS GOLD: BIRD DOG BBQ Multiple locations, 573-7671, birddogbbq.com

One voter summed up the reason Bird Dog is a frequent winner in all things barbecue, including best ribs: “Loads of flavor, not dry or greasy.”

SILVER: RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q BRONZE: TEXAS ROADHOUSE

BARTENDER GOLD: JASON SULLIVAN Over Easy, A Daytime Eatery, 5262 N. Nevada Ave., Suite 100, 598-2969, overeasycolorado.com

A voter said it best, “Extremely friendly and easy going. Very knowledgeable, always manages to serve me my perfect drink based on my mood. All my friends love him!” Others support the accolades, “The most personable and genuine person behind a bar in Colorado Springs,” and “Makes a great bloody mary.”

SILVER: STEPHANIE SCHLIS, BREWER’S REPUBLIC BRONZE: NATE JOHNSON, COWBOYS

BREAKFAST GOLD: OVER EASY, A DAYTIME EATERY 28A S. Tejon St., 471-2311; 5262 N. Nevada Ave., No. 100, 598-2969; overeasycolorado.com

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

BARTENDER JASON SULLIVAN OF OVER EASY, A DAYTIME EATERY

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The first of two breakfast and lunch spots was an instant hit when it opened downtown.

The inventive selection of pancakes, entrées, honey lemonade and fresh juices sets these eateries apart from the crowd. “Fun, fresh and an awesome bloody mary bar,” a voter said. “Although very busy, staff takes time to explain menu questions and the food is awesome,” another said.

SILVER: OMELETTE PARLOR BRONZE: KING’S CHEF DINER

VOTED BEST CASINO!

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FREE dinner for 2 at Home Cafe, Baja Billy’s or $10 off at The Steakhouse!

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CASH DRAWINGS EVERY DAY!!!!

233 E. Bennett Ave - Cripple Creek CO 719-689-2142 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

CHRISTIAN MURDOCK, THE GAZETTE

BRISTOL BREWING CO.

BREW PUB

BREWERY

BUFFET

GOLD: BRISTOL BREWING CO. 1604 S. Cascade Ave., 633-2555, bristolbrewing.com

GOLD: BRISTOL BREWING CO. 1604 S. Cascade Ave., 633-2555, bristolbrewing.com

GOLD: TUCANOS BRAZILIAN GRILL 3294 Cinema Point, 597-3800, tucanos.com

One voter said, “Two words: Winter Warlock. In all seriousness, Bristol has made a memorable impact on the local community. They make great beer, and they support great causes. There’s a lot to love.”

SILVER: COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY BRONZE: PHANTOM CANYON BREWING CO.

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An anchor at the Ivywild School, the brewery is a repeat winner with legions of fans. One voter enthused: “Bristol’s beer is great (love my Winter Warlock) but the way they give back to the COS community is even better!”

SILVER: RED LEG BREWING CO. BRONZE: PIKES PEAK BREWING CO.

Folks come here for the Churrasco-style dining, which features fresh meats and veggies grilled on swords and delivered to your table. It’s festive and fun. Voters agree: “Tucanos is my favorite! A bit pricey, but the food is excellent and the grilled meats are truly unique. Try them all!” “I hate buffets, but I love this place. Not your typical buffet.

Very clean and the food is amazing!”

SILVER: THE BROADMOOR BRONZE: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN RESORT

Since 1998

The Best Fresh Sushi & Rolls, Teriyaki Steak & Tempuras MONDAY 50% Off Everything (5p-6p) TUESDAY 20% Off Sushi and Rolls (5p-close) 50% Off All Appetizers (5p-close) $2 Domestic Beer (5p-close)

WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY Late Happy Hour Buy One Get the 2nd One 1/2 Off FRIDAY 50% Off House Sake and Beer (5p-6:30p) 2 for 1 Glass of Wine (5p-6:30p) 20% Off Sushi and Rolls (5p-6:30p)

WEDNESDAY LADIES NIGHT SATURDAY 2 for 1 Drinks (5p-6:30p) 20% Off Sushi and Rolls (11a-6p) 50% Off Entree (5p-close) For the ladies 20% Off Sushi and Rolls for Everyone (5p-6:30p) SUNDAY 20% Off Sushi and Rolls (5p-close) THURSDAY Happy Hour (5p-6:30p) LUNCH Monday - Friday 2 for 1 on Glass of Wine 50% Off Sushi and Rolls (11a-2:30p) 50% Off House Sake and Beer

22 S. Tejon

719-630-1167

2016

fujiyamasushi.com

B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

BURGER GOLD: THE SKIRTED HEIFER 204 N. Tejon St., 635-3276, skirtedheifer.com

Kevin and Suzette Megyeri already ran Bambino’s, an Italian restaurant, and wanted to try a burger joint. When making burgers at home, they’d melt cheddar cheese around the beef and grill it until it resembled a lacy skirt. They called it the Skirted Heifer. Their new restaurant focuses on local foods and eco-friendly practices. “They have the best burgers ever!

The crispy, grilled cheese skirt on the burger is crazy delicious,” a voter said. Another said, “The burger patty itself is flavorful and perfect.

The fruits are amazing and all the homemade condiments are incredible. The staff and the atmosphere are great as well.”

SILVER: FIVE GUYS BURGERS AND FRIES BRONZE: RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS & BREWS

BURRITO GOLD: CHIPOTLE Multiple locations, 632-4311, chipotle.com

Known for its sustainable ingredients, the chain is loved for consistent, flavorful offerings. It boasts eight shops in the Springs. Voters said: “This is the only fast food/restaurant food we eat” and “Best ingredients, consistent quality.”

SILVER: EL TACO REY BRONZE: MONICA’S TACO SHOP

BUSINESS LUNCH GOLD: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY 4605 Centennial Blvd., 599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com

The eatery features daily specials, many with a French flair indicative of the French chef and owner. The prices and tastes keep customers coming back for more. A voter said, “Wonderful food, wonderful lunch prices.”

SILVER: SONTERRA INNOVATIVE SOUTHWEST GRILL BRONZE: MACKENZIE’S CHOP HOUSE

CAJUN GOLD: SPRINGS ORLEANS 123 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 520-0123, springsorleans.com

THE SKIRTED HEIFER

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JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

Not only is the eatery a repeat gold winner, the chef is a repeat winner of the annual Mumbo Jumbo Gumbo contest held in Manitou Springs. You’ll find frothy café au lait, beignets, crawfish étouffée and po’ boys on the menu.

Said one voter: “Excellent black bean burger, truffle fries and beignets in a charming atmosphere. Great service, too!”

SILVER: MOMMA PEARL’S CAJUN KITCHEN BRONZE: BOODAD’S LOUISIANA CAFÉ

DINING: READERS’ PICKS

CAKE GOLD: NOTHING BUNDT CAKES 5086 N. Nevada Ave., Suite 120, 599-4112, nothingbundtcakes.com

This bakery, part of a national chain, has a strong fan base in the Springs.

It has taken top honors two years in a row. Voters praise the phenomenal staff and moist and delicious cakes.

One said, “I have one of these in my house at all times.”

SILVER: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY BRONZE: BOONZAAIJER’S DUTCH BAKERY

CANDY SHOP GOLD: ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY Multiple locations, 635-4131, rmcf.com

Looky-loos can’t resist lining up to watch the candy-making demonstrations and savor the creamy, rich, hand-made fudge, candy apples and truffles. “Chocolate! What can I say!

It’s the best!” a voter said.

SILVER: PATSY’S CANDIES BRONZE: RADIANTLY RAW

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY

CASUAL DINING

CATERER

CHEESECAKE

GOLD: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL 9420 Briar Village Point, 955-6650; 802 Village Center Drive, 266-9244; salsabravacolorado.com

GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS GOURMET MARKET & CAFÉ 410 S. 26th St., 471-3663, godsgourmet.com

GOLD: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY 4605 Centennial Blvd., 599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com

Both locations are family (read: kid) friendly and offer a vast menu of reasonably priced dishes that appeal to voters.

One said, “Provides good service and fabulous food.”

SILVER: TEXAS ROADHOUSE BRONZE: PANINO’S

What began as a catering outfit has morphed into a full-service restaurant, market and deli. No matter what type of event you need catered, you’re covered; these experienced chefs and catering professionals will meet your needs. A voter and owner of a local business said, “We love GGG. We have plenty of events at our B&B, Old Town Guesthouse, which are catered by GGG. Always rave reviews from our guests and clients. Great set up and staff there.”

SILVER: PICNIC BASKET CATERING BRONZE: BUFFALO GALS CATERING

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When it comes to pastries and baked goodies, this eatery is firing on all cylinders. It’s a repeat winner for all things sweet, including ultra-rich cheesecake creations. “The best cheesecake,” said one voter. Another said the sweets are “a treat for your tastebuds.”

SILVER: THE CHEESECAKE ARTIST BRONZE: EAST COAST RESTAURANT AND DELICATESSEN

DINING: READERS’ PICKS

CHEF GOLD: BROTHER LUCK Brother Luck Street Eats, 1005 W. Colorado Ave., 434-2741, chefbrotherluck.com

Owner of Brother Luck Street Eats, Luck is known for his way with pork — and also his playfully themed dinners that sell out in moments. He’s putting Colorado Springs on the national culinary map with frequent appearances on Food Network reality shows.

SILVER: JUSTIN CASTOR, OVER EASY, A DAYTIME EATERY BRONZE: JOSHUA DAVIS, SONTERRA INNOVATIVE SOUTHWEST GRILL

CHICKEN WINGS GOLD: WINGSTOP 1914 Southgate Road, 475-9464; 530 S. Academy Blvd., 591-9464; 6056 Stetson Hills Blvd., 597-9464; wingstop.com

First, select the style of wings you desire: classic, boneless or strips. Then pick the sauce that floats your boat for a finger-licking tasty treat. Extra crispy wings tossed in lemon pepper rank high with voters. “Can’t be beat,” one fan said.

SILVER: GOLDEN FLAME HOT WINGS BRONZE: BUFFALO WILD WINGS

BROTHER LUCK

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

CHINESE GOLD: P.F. CHANG’S 1725 Briargate Parkway, 593-8580, pfchangs.com

This upscale Chinese fusion restaurant serves consistent and delicious fare, including gluten-free dishes. Voters suggest making reservations for Friday and Saturday nights.

SILVER: COAL MINE DRAGON CHINESE RESTAURANT BRONZE: SILVER POND CHINESE GOURMET

COFFEE SHOP GOLD: DUTCH BROS. COFFEE Multiple locations, dutchbros.com

When you drive up to the ordering window, it’s like you’ve rolled up to a party. Music keeps you pumping, and caffeine keeps you hopping. One voter said, “The best coffee for the best price, plus the employees are cheerful and friendly. They know my name and remember my drink. I love Dutch Bros!”

SILVER: PIKES PERK COFFEE & TEA HOUSE BRONZE: STARBUCKS

COLORADO BEER GOLD: LAUGHING LAB SCOTTISH ALE BRISTOL BREWING CO., 1604 S. Cascade Ave., 633-2555, bristolbrewing.com

Created in 1994, the creamy ale has won numerous medals at beer competitions. Voters not only like the beer but the story behind it.

SILVER: FAT TIRE AMBER ALE, NEW BELGIUM BREWING CO. BRONZE: ELEPHANT ROCK INDIA PALE ALE, PIKES PEAK BREWING CO.

COLORADO CUISINE GOLD: ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFÉ 26 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1430, adamsmountain.com

A popular place over the years for its creative ways with Colorado-sourced ingredients. Voters said: “Always has, always will be the best Colorado cuisine in the area,” and “Love their slightly unusual menu and healthy options.”

SILVER: COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY RESTAURANT AND TAPHOUSE BRONZE: THE MARGARITA AT PINE CREEK

DELI GOLD: (TIE) JASON’S DELI AND WOOGLIN’S DELI & CAFÉ 7455 N. Academy Blvd., 302-0234, jasonsdeli.com; 823 N. Tejon St., 578-9443, wooglinsdeli.com

DUTCH BROS. COFFEE

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JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

Jason’s Deli is a near-national chain with a fine reputation for serving classic deli dishes. Voters love the food and the fast service.

The old-school classic Wooglin’s Deli & Café, just south of Colorado College, has been a fixture for years. Voters said two standouts are the chicken salad (as a salad or sandwich) and the spinach garden salad.

SILVER: MOLLICA’S ITALIAN MARKET & DELI BRONZE: EAST COAST RESTAURANT & DELICATESSEN

DINING: READERS’ PICKS

DESSERT GOLD: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY 4605 Centennial Blvd., 599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com

With French-trained chefs/owners, it’s no surprise the café produces excellent pastries and desserts. The chefs won numerous awards for their desserts at the old Colorado Springs Chorale Chefs’ Gala. A voter said, “Again, their desserts are to die for.”

SILVER: THE MELTING POT BRONZE: COQUETTE’S BISTRO & BAKERY

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

Many customers are fans of the searing hot green chili ladled here. “Quantity, quality, price — need I say more?” a voter declared. Another said, “This is our favorite diner in the country!”

SILVER: GUNTHER TOODY’S DINER BRONZE: SHELDON’S LUNCHEONETTE

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

KING’S CHEF DINER

We don’t say we’re the best pizza . . .

You do.

Thank you, Colorado Springs.

Feed your hunger! Visit bbnyp.com today.

2016

B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

ENCHILADA GOLD: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL 9420 Briar Village Point, 955-6650; 802 Village Center Drive, 266-9244; salsabravacolorado.com

This local family-owned eatery serves California-style Mexican dishes and gets raves for its enchiladas. “We come back to Salsa Brava time after time for the steak avocado enchiladas,” a voter said. “They never disappoint!”

SILVER: EL TACO REY BRONZE: AMANDA’S FONDA

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

Prime beef rules here and the steaks are seared to perfection. “The food, the atmosphere, the drinks, the people are all top-notch on all counts,” a voter praised.

SILVER: MACKENZIE’S CHOP HOUSE BRONZE: THE BLUE STAR

THE FAMOUS STEAK HOUSE

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

Thank you for voting The Melting Pot as Best Of!

Come dine with us soon!

30 E Pikes Peak Ave Ste A Colorado Springs, CO 80903 | (719) 385-0300

26 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

CLOSE TO HOME BUT A WORLD AWAY.

The Broadmoor. It’s a world unto itself, offering a broad range of accommodations, activities, dining options and more for every taste, in a setting of incomparable beauty. It’s the perfect place for a vacation getaway or just a weekend retreat; and because it’s so close to home, it takes very little time to immerse yourself in this world of luxury, relaxation, adventure and fun. Plan your Broadmoor escape soon.

And see how a short drive can make a world of difference.

8 7 7. 2 7 5 . 3 19 6

BROADMOOR.COM

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

FISH TACO GOLD: BONEFISH GRILL 5102 N. Nevada Ave., 598-0826, bonefishgrill.com

BG gets high marks from voters for the popular Bang Bang Shrimp, but raves go through the roof when the crispy shrimp are folded into a soft, warm tortilla and topped with lettuce, tomatoes and sour cream.

“Love it,” a voter said.

SILVER: HACIENDA COLORADO BRONZE: LA’AU’S TACO SHOP

FOOD TRUCK GOLD: PIGLATIN FOOD TRUCK Curbside Cuisine, 225 N. Nevada Ave., 347-1144, piglatintruck.com

Andres and Patricia Velez are known for serving pig with a crazy bunch of ingredients that always results in deliciousness.

One fan of the truck, which moves but parks most days at Curbside Cuisine for lunch, said: “Great food and service!”

SILVER: THE SPRINGS CUPCAKE TRUCK BRONZE: POTATO POTATO

PIGLATIN FOOD TRUCK

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

gOOD FOOD, gREAT TIMES, THAT’S AN ORDER!

SARgES’ cHALLENgE 6 EggS 6 BAcON STRIpS STAck OF LARgE pANcAkES SIDE OF TOAST LARgE gLASS OF MILk OR ORANgE juIcE

EAT IT ALL IN 20 MINuTES OR LESS AND IT’S ON THE HOuSE! ONLY 25 HAVE cOMpLETED IT, WHO WILL BE NuMBER 26?

ATTEN-HuT!

2016

• FuLL MENu SERVED ALL DAY • FuLL BAR AVAILABLE-16 BEERS ON TAp • HAppY HOuR 3-7 DAILY • $4 BLOODY MARYS AND MIMOSAS ALL DAY SuNDAY • MEDIcAL MONDAYS-10% OFF FOR MEDIcAL pERSONNEL • TEAcHER TuESDAY-10% OFF FOR TEAcHERS • MILITARY, VETS AND FIRST RESpONDERS-10% OFF EVERYDAY

VETERAN OWNED, FAMILY ORIENTED

6436 HWY 85/87, FOuNTAIN * 719-645-8489 * WWW.SARgESgRILL.cOM 28 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

DINING: READERS’ PICKS

FOOD WITH A VIEW GOLD: SUNBIRD MOUNTAIN GRILL & TAVERN 230 Point of the Pines Drive, 598-8990, thesunbird.com

A varied menu is appreciated, but the outdoor patio and sweeping views keep people coming back time and time again. “Wow, great food and the view: spectacular,” one voter said.

SILVER: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN RESORT BRONZE: HACIENDA COLORADO

FRENCH GOLD: LA BAGUETTE FRENCH BISTRO 4440 N. Chestnut St., 599-0686, labaguettefrenchbistro.com

“True French food,” one voter said, “and great baguettes.” Be sure to like the eatery on Facebook to learn about special dinners that quickly sell out.

SILVER: LA TARTINE FRENCH BISTRO CAFÉ BRONZE: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY

FRENCH ONION SOUP GOLD: LA BAGUETTE 4440 N. Chestnut St., 599-0686, labaguettefrenchbistro.com; 117 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 636-5020, labaguettedowntown.com; 2417 W. Colorado Ave., 577-4818, labaguette-co.com

This is a favorite of many voters. Said one: “Their French onion soup is legendary.”

SILVER: MIMI’S CAFÉ BRONZE: PANERA BREAD

LA BAGUETTE

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

Proudly Serving Colorado Springs’

Best BBQ Our meats are oak-smoked and our signature gluten-free BBQ sauces are made in house everyday.

Centennial & Garden of the Gods Centennial West Shopping Center 4153 Centennial Blvd Colorado Springs, CO 80907

2016

Fountain Markets at Mesa Ridge Shopping Center, 6965 Mesa Ridge Parkway, Ste. 190 Fountain, CO 80817

Shops at Briargate Promenade Shops at Briargate 1645 Briargate Pkwy, Ste. 243 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Powers & Stetson Hills Ridgeview Marketplace Shopping Center 5984 Stetson Hills Blvd., Ste 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80923

BIRD DOG BBQ Colorado Springs, CO

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

FRIED CHICKEN GOLD: CHICK-FIL-A Multiple locations, 531-7320, chick-fil-a.com

The bird is fried in a pressure cooker to perfection: moist on the inside and crispy on the outside. Customers love the chicken and the service, too.

“Chick-fil-A is top-notch and so very good! The best customer and friendly service,” a voter said.

SILVER: POPEYES LOUISIANA KITCHEN BRONZE: JUNIPER VALLEY RANCH

FRIES GOLD: FIVE GUYS BURGERS AND FRIES 7252 N. Academy Blvd., 264-6400; 3336 Cinema Point, 380-4601; fiveguys.com

What’s not to love about delicious, double-dipped and seasoned fries? A voter said, “Hands down the best! Fresh cut, local or nearly local.”

SILVER: RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS & BREWS BRONZE: CHICK-FIL-A

FROZEN YOGURT GOLD: YOYOGURT Multiple locations, 302-6093, yoyogurtusa.com

Year after year, this shop has scooped the creamy good stuff that earns awards. Not all frozen yogurt is the same. Said a voter: “Love the selection of yogurts, great taste and friendly environment.”

SILVER: LULU’S FROZEN YOGURT BRONZE: ITOPIT

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

FIVE GUYS BURGERS AND FRIES

Delicious, Innovative, Perfected MONDAY NIGHTS

$10.00 BOTTLE OF WINE!

Monthly s r e n n i D e n i W s, 5 Courses 5 Wine

Generations of Serving Excellent Greek Food - Fresh!

Open 7 Days a Week Sun - Thurs 11am – 9pm Fri & Sat 11am – 10pm

Catering Available

2616 W. Colorado Ave. • Reservations 719.633-0406 30 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

2016

DINING: READERS’ PICKS

GERMAN GOLD: EDELWEISS GERMAN RESTAURANT 34 E. Ramona Ave., 633-2220, edelweissrest.com

For more than 40 years, this has been locals’ go-to spot for authentic German dishes. “Felt like we were back in Deutschland!” one voter said.

SILVER: UWE’S GERMAN RESTAURANT BRONZE: SCHNITZEL FRITZ

GLUTEN-FREE GOLD: COQUETTE’S BISTRO AND BAKERY 321 N. Tejon St., 685-2420, coquettesbistroandbakery.com

This swanky cafe caters to those with wheat sensitivity as well as those without but who hanker for tasty food. “I absolutely love Coquette’s,” a voter said. “Having celiac is bad enough, now having a place like them to fulfill my gluten cravings is a blessing. I love their Monte Cristo. Yum! And their fried chicken is so good.”

COQUETTE’S BISTRO AND BAKERY

CHRISTIAN MURDOCK, THE GAZETTE

SILVER: TAPATERIA BRONZE: MARCO’S PIZZA

2016

B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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KING’S CHEF DINER

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

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

Apparently readers like it hot, and that’s exactly what a bowl of green will bring to your taste buds at this eatery. It’s no wonder one voter said, “Killer chili!”

SILVER: EL TACO REY BRONZE: HACIENDA COLORADO

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HOME OF THE WORLD FAMOUS PANINO SANDWICH • PASTA • PIZZA • CALZONES • SALADS • SUBS • FULL BAR

Serving Colorado Springs for over 40 years

2016 Family owned and operated with 3 locations to serve you!

Paninos Downtown 604 N. Tejon St. 719-635-7452

Paninos West Side 1721 S. 8th St. 719-635-1188

New location Paninos East Side – 3015 New Center Point 719-380-2720

VOTED THE #1 PLACE TO EAT WITH YOUR FAMILY

PIZZA PASTA SALAD

SANDWICHES SOUP 2910 E. Platte • 473-5540

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

COLORADO SPRINGS’

BEST CATERER Good Food. Loyal Customers. Great Community.

BESTCATERER.NET B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

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

Here you’ll be served a huge platter of seasoned meat with toasty pita points garnished with slightly tart tzatziki sauce. That is one of many reasons a reader said, “This is hands down the best, freshest, most authentic and delicious Greek food in Colorado Springs — and dare I say it, Colorado.”

SILVER: HEART OF JERUSALEM CAFÉ BRONZE: MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ

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

The chain serves island-style dishes you’d expect only to find in Hawaii. Plate Special, anyone? With two scoops of steamed rice? Locals simply say, “Yummy foods!”

SILVER: LA’AU’S TACO SHOP BRONZE: TROPIX HAWAIIAN BBQ

THE GAZETTE FILE

JAKE & TELLY’S GREEK TAVERNA

FOR US, IT’S NOT ABOUT

Celebrating

WINNING AN AWARD,

IT’S ABOUT BEING

N MINATED

BY YOU.

FPO

THE BLUE STAR

Best of 2016 logo here

1645 S. TEJON ST • 719.632.1086 THEBLUESTAR.NET •

306 S. 8th St. 633-9616

LaCasitaMexiGrill.com 34 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

4295 N. Nevada Ave. 599-7829

3725 E. Woodmen Rd. 536-0375

DINING: READERS’ PICKS

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

This faux train depot is a perennial favorite for hot dog fans: “Best Chicago dogs anywhere! Great fries and pickles too,” a voter proclaimed.

SILVER: COSTCO WHOLESALE FOOD COURT BRONZE: SONIC DRIVE-IN

HUEVOS RANCHEROS GOLD: OVER EASY, A DAYTIME EATERY 28A S. Tejon St., 471-2311; 5262 N. Nevada Ave., No. 100, 598-2969; overeasycolorado.com

It doesn’t get any better than here. The corn tortilla is smeared with black beans, topped with perfectly cooked eggs to your liking, then garnished with fresh avocado and Mexican cotija cheese. You get a choice of red or green chili, or mix it up with Christmas (both sauces). Delicious, crispy hash browns finish the plate.

SILVER: ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFÉ BRONZE: KING’S CHEF DINER

OVER EASY, A DAYTIME EATERY

Specializing in

Unique Craft Beer & Specialty Wines from around the World • Family owned and operated for over eight years • Featured monthly beer and wine selections • Advertised in-store beer or wine tastings every Friday

CHRISTIAN MURDOCK, THE GAZETTE

NOW WITH THREE FAMILY FRIENDLY LOCATIONS

MONUMENT 1415 Cipriani Loop Monument, CO 80132

BRIARGATE 9475 Briar Village Point COS, CO 80920

DOWNTOWN 719.573.5638 2906 N Powers Blvd • CS, CO 80922 www.JKliquor.com

1600 Champa, Suite 240 Denver, CO 80202 2015

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

ICE CREAM GOLD: JOSH & JOHN’S NATURALLY HOMEMADE ICE CREAMS 111 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 632-0299; 6896 Centennial Blvd., 532-0299; joshandjohns.com

Since the mid-1980s, this is the place to get homemade ice cream. The best ingredients are slow churned for nearly an hour in old-school rock salt and ice freezers. It makes a big difference in texture and flavor. Other operations blast-freeze their ice creams for about six minutes. The extra effort is appreciated by voters. “You can never go wrong with Colorado Cookies and Cream,” said a voter, adding: “Sometimes I need an extra scoop of Peanut Butter Chocolate.”

SILVER: BJ’S VELVET FREEZ BRONZE: COLD STONE CREAMERY

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

JOSH & JOHN’S NATURALLY HOMEMADE ICE CREAMS

THANK YOU COLORADO SPRINGS

The

s u o m a F

"Best place to celebrate"

A STEAK HOUSE

Thank You Colorado Springs for 14 Years of The Best

31 N. Tejon Street 719.227.7333 www.thefamoussteakhouse.net 36 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

FOR MAKING US A WINNER

• RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED •

Fondue Restaurant

719-685-0277 www.monalisafondue.com

One Love, Colorado Springs!

Thanks for your vote!

• Happy Hour • Catering • Vegan/Vegetarian • Live Music 10 N Sierra Madre Street • 719.473.8280 www.spiceislandgrill.com

DINING: READERS’ PICKS

INDIAN GOLD: LITTLE NEPAL INDIAN RESTAURANT & BAR 1747 S. 8th St., 477-6997; 4820 Flintridge Drive, 598-3428; lnepal.com

Fans tell their friends about the hearty daily buffet, which also is served Thursday evenings (and goes vegetarian Sundays evenings). “Love the variety on the menu,” a voter said.

SILVER: MIRCH MASALA KABAB & CURRY DINING BRONZE: INDIA PALACE

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

Corned beef and cabbage with mustard cream is a staple here, as are many other Irish comfort dishes. A voter said, “Beautiful restaurant, outstanding food and I love those Irish nachos.” Others return again and again for the fish and chips.

SILVER: MCCABE’S TAVERN BRONZE: MCGINTY’S WOOD OVEN PUB

JACK QUINN IRISH ALEHOUSE & PUB

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

Thank you for voting McGinty’s one of Colorado Springs best!

16 2012-20

Great food, friendly staff, and your satisfaction is always our goal.

11115 West Highway 24 • Divide, CO 80814

719-686-7703 www.mcgintyswoodovenpub.com

THE BEST WINE IS YOURS WINE MAKING CLASSES • Over 130 Wine Kit Varities • Kits Yield 29-30 Bottles • Customize Your Own Bottle Labels

2016

Learn to Make Your Own Wine & Beer 5765 North Academy Boulevard 719.598.1164 • fermentations.biz

Located inside Ivywild School, a cool, old elementary school built in 1916, Bristol Brewing Company serves up fresh, award-winning beers and tasty dishes at the Bristol Pub. Share a pint and some good conversation on the patio, try your hand at our shuffleboard table, or just hang out with us and soak up the lively local vibe.

Open 11:00am, M-Sat.; Noon on Sunday. Brewery tours available.

Drink beer with character.

1604 S. CAScade ave. • 719.633.2555 • bristolbrewing.com B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

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

The cafe often is jam-packed, especially on weekends. Tip: Make a reservation. Voters said, “The finest food I have ever eaten,” and “The choices are outstanding. Always happy to eat at Paravacini’s.”

SILVER: BIAGGI’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO BRONZE: CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL

JAMAICAN GOLD: RASTA PASTA 405 N. Tejon St., 481-6888, rastapastacs.com

This casual hangout is where you go to enjoy creative pasta dishes with an island flair. A voter said, “Authentic. Terrific food and just like (being in) Jamaica!”

SILVER: SPICE ISLAND GRILL BRONZE: JAMAICAN FLAVOR

JAPANESE GOLD: FUJIYAMA 22 S. Tejon St., 630-1167, fujiyamasushi.com

Hit this downtown favorite on Mondays for half price everything from 5 to 6 p.m. The menu covers the bases for sushi and sashimi, as well as other popular Japanese dishes. Several voters recommend the sushi, and many said they enjoy the ambiance.

SILVER: AI SUSHI & GRILL BRONZE: JUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT

KOREAN GOLD: SAN CHANG HOUSE 3659 Austin Bluffs Parkway, No. 45, 598-1707

Find your favorite traditional Korean dishes here, served with an assortment of pickled side dishes. “Awesome authentic Korean food and very fast, friendly service,” a voter said.

SILVER: TONG TONG BRONZE: HAPPY TIME KOREAN RESTAURANT

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

You’ll get a lovely plate of pasta sheets layered with beef tomato sauce, spinach, mozzarella and ricotta cheese. It’s a fan favorite.

SILVER: ROMAN VILLA PIZZA BRONZE: LUIGI’S HOMEMADE ITALIAN FOOD

MARGARITA GOLD: THE LOOP 965 Manitou Ave., 685-9344, theloopatmanitou.com

PARAVICINI’S ITALIAN BISTRO

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MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

More than once voters have ranked these pours above all other local versions of the classic drink. The balance of lime juice, tequila and simple syrup makes for a refreshing treat after doing the nearby Manitou Incline.

SILVER: HACIENDA COLORADO BRONZE: AMANDA’S FONDA

DINING: READERS’ PICKS

MEXICAN GOLD: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL 9420 Briar Village Point, 955-6650; 802 Village Center Drive, 266-9244; salsabravacolorado.com

This happy voter summed it up: “Great menu and the food is flavored well.” The award-winning chefs vow to use only the freshest ingredients, and they give the dishes a creative twist.

SILVER: HACIENDA COLORADO BRONZE: AMANDA’S FONDA

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

Lamb shank, anyone? You won’t find a better or bigger one than the versions served here. It’s roasted in tomato wine sauce until the meat falls off the bone and served with herbed orzo and seasonal vegetables and then garnished with feta cheese. Other Greek foods are done just as well.

SILVER: HEART OF JERUSALEM CAFÉ BRONZE: CASPIAN CAFÉ

SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

The Aguilar Family Est. 1966

330 E. Colorado Ave. Colorado Springs, CO 80903

2016

NOW OPEN IN PUEBLO AND BY WORLD ARENA EVENT CENTER

THANK YOU GAZETTE READERS FOR MORE

BEST OF WINS THAN WE CAN COUNT!

FREE PINT

WITH STARTER PURCHASE

Max value $5.00. Must be 21 or older to purchase alcohol. Void where prohibited by law. No cash value. For promotional purposes only. One per person, per visit. One per table. Valid at Colorado Springs locations only. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. No stored value. Dine-in only. Must be used in a single visit. A printed copy of this offer must be presented to your server in order to qualify for this discount. In the event laws prohibit redeeming offer for an alcoholic beverage, offer will be valid for a non-alcoholic drink and an appropriate price adjustment will be made. Excludes tax and gratuity. This coupon cannot be duplicated and may not be reprinted. Coupon may be redeemed one time by receipt only and must be surrendered at time of redemption. PROMO: PINT EXP: 5/31/16

VALID AT COLORADO SPRINGS & PUEBLO LOCATIONS ONLY. To find one near you, visit www.oldchicago.com B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

MOBILE FOOD GOLD: PIGLATIN FOOD TRUCK 225 N. Nevada Ave., 347-1144, piglatintruck.com

As you would expect from the name, hog is the main ingredient in most of the dishes here. And it’s fatty delicious, finger-licking good.

SILVER: THE SPRINGS CUPCAKE TRUCK BRONZE: MIRA SOL FOOD TRUCK

NEW RESTAURANT GOLD: 503W 503 W. Colorado Ave., 471-3370, 503w.co

This eatery specializes in inventive, handcrafted food and drinks created from fresh, natural and local ingredients. There’s an Asian flourish to many of the dishes.

SILVER: COWBOY STAR RESTAURANT AND BUTCHER SHOP BRONZE: ODYSSEY GASTROPUB

PAD THAI GOLD: THAI BASIL 7882 N. Academy Blvd., 268-1688, thaibasilcoloradosprings.com

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

503W

The stir-fry noodle dish is like a hot salad that relies on the balance of flavors and textures of tofu, shrimp, crushed peanuts, fish sauce, bean sprouts, garlic, chilies and eggs to delight diners. One reader said it all: “Best ever.”

SILVER: NARAI THAI RESTAURANT BRONZE: THAI MINT

:

Gemutlichkeit! Experience It!

Authentic German Cuisine Restaurant & Bakery • Quaint Bavarian Setting • Indoor and Outdoor Dining at the Foot of Pikes Peak • Newly remodeled Rathskeller

Reservations Accepted 11:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Daily Dinner starting - 4:00 p.m.

34 East Ramona Avenue www.Edelweissrest.com

719.633.2220 40 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

DINING: READERS’ PICKS

Award Winning Restaurant & Bakery SAIGON CAFE

CHRISTIAN MURDOCK, THE GAZETTE

PHILLY CHEESE STEAK GOLD: TASTE OF PHILLY 3552 N. Academy Blvd., 638-0020; 1634 S. Nevada Ave., 471-1922; 2819 Dublin Blvd., 260-7722; tasteofphilly.biz

Hankering for a pile of chopped steak and grilled onions topped with gooey cheese? Look no further than this chain of sandwich lords. “Great authentic flavor, quick service, nice people,” one voter declared.

SILVER: TRIVELLI’S HOAGIES BRONZE: JERSEY MIKE’S SUBS

PHO BOWL GOLD: SAIGON CAFÉ 20 E. Colorado Ave., 633-2888, coloradosaigoncafe.com

Got a head cold, hangover or just want to chase the chill off a snowstorm? Try a bowl of this savory broth filled with dancing noodles to cure what’s bothering you. Add your choice of meats, veggies, herbs and hot sauce to delight your taste buds. “So fresh every time we go there,” a voter said.

SILVER: PHO-NOMENAL BRONZE: PHO 82

· 100% Gluten Free

· Allergen Conscious · Everything ♥ Made In House · We Also Ship Our Own Flour Blend · NOW open for breakfast on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 8:00 am BISTRO · BAKERY · COCKTAILS

321 N. Tejon Street · Colorado Springs 719.685.2420 · coquettesbistro.com Happy Hour · Full Bar · Bakery · Retail Products Large Party Seating · Custom Baking · Apparel like us on facebook

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

PIE GOLD: VILLAGE INN Multiple locations, villageinn.com

Readers year after year vote for this pie palace, saying things like: “I love the apple pie!” Another bonus: a free slice of pie when you dine on Wednesdays.

SILVER: MOUNTAIN PIE CO. BRONZE: STIR

PIZZA GOLD: BORRIELLO BROTHERS REAL NEW YORK PIZZA Multiple locations, 884-2020, borriellobrothers.com

Take this voter’s comment as a testament to the quality pizza dished up here: “I grew up in New York and I know good pizza and these guys have it!”

SILVER: IL VICINO WOOD OVEN PIZZA BRONZE: PIZZERIA RUSTICA

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

Highly marbled, slow-roasted beef is sliced and served with rich au jus and horseradish cream.

You can get a 12- or 16-ounce portion, which comes with a choice of starch and fresh vegetables.

SILVER: THE FAMOUS STEAK HOUSE BRONZE: TEXAS ROADHOUSE

RED CHILI GOLD: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL 9420 Briar Village Point, 955-6650; 802 Village Center Drive, 266-9244; salsabravacolorado.com

Brick red, as it should be, this red chili is smooth with a hint of spicy heat. It’s a delicious topping for the enchiladas.

SILVER: EL TACO REY BRONZE: AMANDA’S FONDA

RESTAURANT AFTER MIDNIGHT GOLD: THE RABBIT HOLE 101 N. Tejon St., 203-5072, rabbitholedinner.com

What’s better than finding a shadowy, seductive eatery to slip into when you’re out in the wee hours? This ultraurban restaurant and bar is underground, with a street entrance like a Paris Metro stop. The food is outstanding and the drinks mighty fine.

THE RABBIT HOLE

42 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

SILVER: KING’S CHEF DINER BRONZE: VILLAGE INN

DINING: READERS’ PICKS

Our dishes are always delicious, fresh and ready quickly!

THE MELTING POT

THE GAZETTE FILE 2013-20 16

RESTAURANT FOR ANNIVERSARIES GOLD: THE MELTING POT 30 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 385-0300, meltingpot.com

Special occasions require special places to dine, and this restaurant will not disappoint. Cozy booths and extra privacy if you must.

The food is plentiful, fresh and delicious.

SILVER: THE MONA LISA BRONZE: THE BLUE STAR

Full Service Bar with a Great Wine Selection.

Thank You for Voting for Us Colorado Springs’ Best Of 2016 Rockrimmon 805 Village Center Drive 719-531-5175

Broadmoor/Cheyenne Mountain 120 E. Cheyenne Mtn Blvd 719-434-1975

www.narai-thai.com

Best Patio Dining in Old Colorado City • 2 for 1 Drink Specials All Day, Every Day! • Breakfast Served All Day • Early Bird Specials 6:00 – 8:30 am • Gluten Free Menu Selections

2601 W. Colorado Avenue 634.1007 • bontonscafe.com B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

RESTAURANT FOR FIRST DATE GOLD: THE RABBIT HOLE 101 N. Tejon St., 203-5072, rabbitholedinner.com

Voters said: “Unique” and “We go here for special dates. They have a great atmosphere, great food, and wonderful drinks. The service is also amazing.”

SILVER: SHUGA’S BRONZE: MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY

RESTAURANT FOR KIDS GOLD: FARGO’S PIZZA CO. 2910 E. Platte Ave., 473-5540, fargospizza.com

Two words: magic mirrors. Dining room mirrors signal “magically” when orders are ready. What kid wouldn’t love that? Parents love the reasonable prices and tasty food.

SILVER: CHICK-FIL-A BRONZE: RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS & BREWS

RESTAURANT FOR VEGETARIANS GOLD: ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFÉ 26 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1430, adamsmountain.com

A longtime favorite for its vegetarian and “slow food” dishes. A voter said, “Love the local organic choices.”

SILVER: SEEDS COMMUNITY CAFÉ BRONZE: OLA JUICE BAR

RESTAURANT SERVICE GOLD: OVER EASY, A DAYTIME EATERY 28A S. Tejon St., 471-2311; 5262 N. Nevada Ave., No. 100, 598-2969; overeasycolorado.com

The eatery has become one of the most popular places for breakfast or lunch, and it’s not just the food that keeps the tables full. Fans rave about the service. “Absolutely the best, friendly service,” and “Worth waiting for. Love the restaurant staff here. Very genuine and down to earth.”

SILVER: TEXAS ROADHOUSE BRONZE: PENROSE ROOM, THE BROADMOOR

RESTAURANT WITH A MILITARY DISCOUNT GOLD: SARGES’ GRILL 6436 U.S. 85/87, Fountain, 645-8489, sargesgrill.com

ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFÉ

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JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

It’s no surprise this eatery caters to military servicemen and women, but it also gives specials for first responders, medical personnel and teachers. Members of the military and first responders get a 10 percent discount daily. The discount also applies on Medical Mondays and Teacher Tuesdays.

SILVER: DICKEY’S BARBECUE PIT BRONZE: APPLEBEE’S GRILL & BAR

DINING: READERS’ PICKS

SANDWICH GOLD: JIMMY JOHN’S Multiple locations, 434-4646, jimmyjohns.com

The chain is a crowd pleaser and frequent Best of the Springs winner. Voters praise the speedy delivery service and taste.

SILVER: WOOGLIN’S DELI & CAFÉ BRONZE: PANERA BREAD

SEAFOOD GOLD: BONEFISH GRILL 5102 N. Nevada Ave., 598-0826, bonefishgrill.com

“You cannot leave this restaurant without ordering the Bang Bang Shrimp with a cup of their seafood chowder,” a voter said. “It’s out of this world.” Bonefish has a brunch that is worth checking out, too.

SILVER: RED LOBSTER BRONZE: ENGLISH DOCKSIDE SEAFOOD & GRILL

BONEFISH GRILL

COURTESY PHOTO

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

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

Let’s face it. Paravicini’s has won the town over for all things Italian, including the super-moist meatballs and spaghetti. The red sauce smothering the dish is just the right balance of spice and tomato.

SILVER: LUIGI’S HOMEMADE ITALIAN FOOD BRONZE: OLIVE GARDEN ITALIAN KITCHEN

SPORTS BAR GOLD: OLD CHICAGO PIZZA & TAPROOM Multiple locations, 593-7678, oldchicago.com

Voters love this place, which has plenty of television screens, beers on tap and tasty food. Pizzas are a highlight of the menu.

SILVER: BACK EAST BAR & GRILL BRONZE: BUFFALO WILD WINGS

STEAK GOLD: TEXAS ROADHOUSE 595 S. 8th St., 473-9711; 3120 N. Powers Blvd., 638-8050; 16196 Jackson Creek Parkway, 481-9980; texasroadhouse.com

Many voters commented on the consistency of the steaks cooked here. “Always great. Always good value for what is paid and never disappoints,” one said.

SILVER: THE FAMOUS STEAK HOUSE BRONZE: MACKENZIE’S CHOP HOUSE

SUBS

GOLD: JIMMY JOHN’S Multiple locations, 434-4646, jimmyjohns.com

The chain does a fine job of filling freshly baked breads with plenty of meat, cheese and veggies. Diners can’t get enough.

SILVER: FIREHOUSE SUBS BRONZE: SUBWAY

SUNDAY BRUNCH GOLD: OVER EASY, A DAYTIME EATERY 28A S. Tejon St., 471-2311; 5262 N. Nevada Ave., No. 100, 598-2969; overeasycolorado.com

This multicategory winner keeps fans coming back with its interesting dishes, bloody mary bar and service. “Their breakfast tacos are amazing. So filling,” one voter raved. “I also had an orange-carrot drink that was fantastic. Love this place.”

OLD CHICAGO PIZZA & TAPROOM

46 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

CHRISTIAN MURDOCK, THE GAZETTE FILE

SILVER: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN RESORT BRONZE: LAKE TERRACE DINING ROOM, THE BROADMOOR

DINING: READERS’ PICKS

SUSHI GOLD: FUJIYAMA 22 S. Tejon St., 630-1167, fujiyamasushi.com

This is the go-to place for all things fresh fish. Fujiyama is a frequent winner in various categories, and voters praise the fresh food and friendly service. And the specials.

SILVER: AI SUSHI & GRILL BRONZE: JUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT

SUSHI ROLL GOLD: OH MY GOD, FUJIYAMA 22 S. Tejon St., 630-1167, fujiyamasushi.com

For the second year in a row, this roll has won the hearts of diners for its crispy outside and steamy interior of cream cheese, masago, spicy mayo and eel sauce.

SILVER: HEART ATTACK, FUJIYAMA BRONZE: LION KING, JUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT

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

The tamale queen has ruled again. “Nobody beats Momma Aguilar’s,� proclaimed a loyal diner.

SILVER: LA CASITA MEXICAN GRILL BRONZE: SALSA LATINA

Swan House Manor

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B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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DINING: READERS’ PICKS

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

The restaurant has a lock on the taco scene, winning gold yet again. A diner professed: “Hands down the best. Dallas doesn’t even have food this good.” There you have it.

SILVER: MONICA’S TACO SHOP BRONZE: TACO EXPRESS

TEMPURA GOLD: FUJIYAMA 22 S. Tejon St., 630-1167, fujiyamasushi.com

Sure, voters love the sushi here. And they also return again and again for the tasty beef, seafood, chicken and vegetable tempura. It always tastes fresh, one voter said.

SILVER: JUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT BRONZE: AI SUSHI & GRILL

THAI GOLD: THAI BASIL 7882 N. Academy Blvd., 268-1688, thaibasilcoloradosprings.com

This extension of a Denver restaurant chain has become a favorite of Springs diners. One fan said, “Such great food at such great prices.” But be warned: The hot sauce is hot. “Thai hot? Be afraid,” a voter said.

SILVER: NARAI THAI RESTAURANT BRONZE: WILD GINGER THAI RESTAURANT

TRUFFLE GOLD: ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY Multiple locations, 635-4131, rmcf.com

This tried-and-true candy maker has thought of everything possible to do with delicious chocolate and other confections. It’s a plus to see the candy being made in the store.

SILVER: RADIANTLY RAW BRONZE: CACAO CHEMISTRY

VIETNAMESE GOLD: SAIGON CAFÉ 20 E. Colorado Ave., 633-2888, coloradosaigoncafe.com

One of the original Vietnamese restaurants to put down stakes in the Springs. It’s a winner with voters, who heaped high praise for the steaming bowls of pho, Vietnamese egg rolls and grilled meats.

Voters also noted the reasonable prices and fresh ingredients.

SILVER: LEMONGRASS BISTRO BRONZE: SAIGON SPRINGS RESTAURANT

WINE LIST GOLD: THE BLUE STAR 1645 S. Tejon St., 632-1086, thebluestar.net FUJIYAMA

48 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

The wine list is extensive. Go on Sunday evenings and be rewarded with half-price bottles of the grape.

SILVER: SUMMIT, THE BROADMOOR BRONZE: SWIRL WINE BAR

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ARTS

& ENTERTAINMENT

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A&E: EXPERT PICKS LIVE WELL

GRANDE DAME OF DANCE JAN JOHNSON ORMAO DANCE COMPANY 10 S. Spruce St., 471-9759, ormaodance.org

Twenty-five years ago, founder Jan Johnson looked around and GAZETTE GO! REPORTER saw one thing missing from the thriving local arts scene — concert dance and, more specifically, modern dance. Her desire? Bring performances to people in nontraditional venues, such as public squares and art galleries. She certainly did it — her charismatic dancers pop up all over town and at all manner of events, soirees and business luncheons.

And she keeps the choreography fresh by bringing in guest artists to work with the company, including Taiwanese choreographer Hsin-Yu Kao from Compagnie Käfig, a hip-hop/street dance company in France; New York City choreographer Larry Keigwin; and Mike Tyus, a dancer from Pilobolus, a renowned modern dance company in New York City.

JENNIFER MULSON

ORMAO DANCE COMPANY

It’s your century.

Make it time well spent.

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

FESTIVAL COMES FROM BEHIND FOR THE WIN GREEN BOX ARTS FESTIVAL June 26-July 4, Green Mountain Falls, greenboxarts.org

Sure, you’ve heard of Territory Days and Springs Spree, but you might not be aware of the sweetest free festival in the mountains.

Since 2009, Green Box has filled the nine-day event with professional dancers from New York City’s Keigwin + Company and music by local, regional and national acts, including the Veronika String Quartet, Chamber Orchestra of the Springs and bluegrass musicians Mike Bub, Don Rigsby and Jeremy Abshire. Between performances, attendees can partake in interactive art installations, daytime workshops for adults and kids, wine tastings, stargazing, s’mores and more.

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A&E: EXPERT PICKS

GAME CHANGER FOR THE ARTS UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO AT COLORADO SPRINGS ENT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

UCCS and Ent Federal Credit Union are pulling out the stops for the arts. The two agreed to combine financial forces on a giant $60 million arts center on the UCCS campus set to open in 2018.

The building not only will be home to TheatreWorks and the Galleries of Contemporary Art, but many other arts organizations will use space, including high school performing arts departments, Colorado Springs Dance Theatre, Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale and Colorado Springs Conservatory.

EXHIBIT THAT DEFIED GRAVITY “EL MAC: AEROSOL EXALTED” Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, 30 W. Dale St., 634-5581, csfineartscenter.org

The museum expanded its boundaries in fall 2015 with its first graffiti show. And what a show it was, with largescale murals by El Mac (Miles MacGregor), an internationally renowned graffiti artist who depicts moving portraits of humans. The artist left no doubt a spray-painted piece can double as fine art.

The exhibit opened with a day of live music, break dancing and graffiti demos that challenged the mindset of patrons and helped attract audiences who otherwise might never have visited the center.

HOPPING ART CENTER TO RIVAL THE OLYMPIC VILLAGE COTTONWOOD CENTER FOR THE ARTS 427 E. Colorado Ave., 520-1899, cottonwoodcenterforthearts.com

Executive Director Jon Khoury has created a thriving artopia near downtown. The nonprofit organization is home to dozens of artists, musicians and writers who rent studio space to create and sell their work. Walk down the hall and you’ll feel the building hum with creativity. There are also monthly art exhibits, adult art classes and a theater space home to Star Bar Players, Theatre ‘d Art and Cottonwood Theatre Lab.

PLACE TO SEE THE BIG GUNS THEATREWORKS’ PROLOGUE SERIES AT UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO AT COLORADO SPRINGS Dusty Loo Bon Vivant Theater, UCCS, 3955 Regent Circle, 255-3232, theatreworkscs.org

COTTONWOOD CENTER FOR THE ARTS

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THE GAZETTE FILE

Actors Brian Dennehy and Olympia Dukakis. Directors Tina Packer and Jon Jory. The New York Times theater critic Ben Brantley. Playwright Lisa D’Amour. Folklore scholar Suzanna MacAulay. The New Yorker magazine drama critic John Lahr. Clearly, the folks at TheatreWorks have some serious connections across the country. Every year, I’m impressed by the wide range of experts they attract to accompany each production. Even better? The lectures are free.

A&E: READERS’ PICKS

90th anniversary season 2016-17

719-575-9632 • csphilharmonic.org

Best of Gazette 2016.indd 1

4/4/16 11:

THE GAZETTE FILE

MICHAEL GARMAN OF THE MICHAEL GARMAN MUSEUM & GALLERY

ACTOR GOLD: CHRIS MEDINA

Acting is no side project for this man, and his fans know it. The founder of Funky Little Theater Co. is “passionate about advancing local theater,” one voter said. Another said Medina “always loves being in character and you can tell that he really turns into who he acts as.”

SILVER: JIM JACKSON BRONZE: DYLAN MOSLEY

ACTRESS GOLD: BIRGITTA DE PREE

Voters agreed, this actor, director and co-founder of Millibo Art Theatre commands the stage. They praised her ability to create strong characters and support other actors. “She is versatile and a natural comedienne and scene stealer,” one voter said. “Funniest gal in town,” another said.

find your happy tail at hsppr.org

SILVER: AMY BROOKS BRONZE: REBECCA MYERS BURDICK

ARTIST GOLD: MICHAEL GARMAN The Michael Garman Museum & Gallery, 2418 W. Colorado Ave., 471-9391, michaelgarman.com

The sculptor discovered a talent for crafting his characters while at an art school in Santiago, Chile. After he returned to the States, he decided to master the art of reproducing those same pieces and discovered a voracious market ready to eat them up. “We’ve given several Michael Garman gifts over the years,” one voter said. “They were always well received.” “One of my favorites,” another said.

“Captures real life.”

SILVER: STEVE WEED BRONZE: LADY ALADRAH

P H OTO BY:

bluefoxphotography.com B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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COMMERCIAL GALLERY GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER 30 W. Dale St., 634-5581, csfineartscenter.org

The museum continues to showcase featured exhibits in the main galleries but opened retail spaces last year. Works are available for purchase in the Museum Shop and Deco Lounge Gallery. “Exhibits are fabulous. Great place to hang out,” one voter said. “A wide variety of art and great special events,” another said.

SILVER: COTTONWOOD CENTER FOR THE ARTS BRONZE: THE MICHAEL GARMAN MUSEUM & GALLERY

DANCE STUDIO FOR ADULTS GOLD: THE BALLET SOCIETY OF COLORADO SPRINGS 4005 Lee Vance View, Suite 100, 272-7078, danceinthesprings.com

Want to make an impression on the dance floor or have fun while exercising? This is the place for beginning and advanced dancers to learn classical ballet, contemporary dance, tap, lyrical/jazz, hip-hop, swing and more. Voters appreciated the results of their hard work and the nurturing environment. Teachers “focus on technique, care for your body,” one voter said.

“No negativity. Good body image among the dancers.

Respect each other, kind to younger dancers, new dancers.”

SILVER: TURNING POINTE DANCE BRONZE: ORMAO DANCE CO.

DANCE STUDIO FOR KIDS GOLD: TURNING POINTE DANCE 7667 N. Union Blvd., 445-9497, turningpointeschoolofdance.com

The faith-based dance studio came out on top with voters who enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and caring teachers. “Turning Pointe offers so much more than dance,” one voter said. “Our daughter is nurtured and encouraged in a positive way to continue her dreams with tons of support.” “Amazing teachers and values and principals that will assist throughout their entire lives,” another voter wrote.

SILVER: THE BALLET SOCIETY OF COLORADO SPRINGS BRONZE: DANCE UNLIMITED

DOWNTOWN EVENT GOLD: ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

People love a parade, especially one celebrating the luck of the Irish. About 30,000 people turn out every year to watch more than 100 parade entries roll down Tejon Street, including bands, floats, flags, leprechauns, cars, firetrucks and, maybe most importantly, bagpipers.

SILVER: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PARADE BRONZE: WHAT IF… FESTIVAL OF INNOVATION AND IMAGINATION

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

THE BALLET SOCIETY OF COLORADO SPRINGS

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A&E: READERS’ PICKS

FINE ARTS PHOTOGRAPHER GOLD: LARS LEBER 313-0407, larsleber.net

The German-born photographer is beloved by voters who couldn’t stop commenting about his gorgeous Colorado photos. “Every day he brings me something spectacular to experience, enjoy and share worldwide,” one voter said. “Because of Lars, Colorado is on everybody’s bucket list.” “Lars is quite possibly the Van Gogh of nature photography,” another wrote. And still another said, “Very rarely can human technology truly capture the beauty that nature provides.

Lars captures true beauty in the most amazing way.”

SILVER: BLUE FOX PHOTOGRAPHY BRONZE: CHRIS KJELDSEN FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY

LOCAL BAND GOLD: WIREWOOD STATION wirewood-station.com

The Americana, folk and bluegrass band gives its fans what they want. “Exceptional musicality with down home enthusiasm and fun,” one voter said. “A foot stomping joy every time.” The four-piece band was the acoustic winner of the 2014 Battle of the Bands at the Rocky Mountain Music Festival.

SILVER: SOFAKILLERS BRONZE: THE MARTINI SHOT

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A&E: READERS’ PICKS

LOCAL FESTIVAL GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS LABOR DAY LIFT OFF coloradospringslabordayliftoff.com

Hot air balloons on Labor Day are a Colorado Springs tradition.

Folks don’t mind rising and shining if it means watching giant Darth Vader, Yoda and the Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe balloons drifting off into the morning sky. Plus, it’s free. “It’s a spectacular display and the ancillary events were greatly improved last year,” one voter said.

SILVER: TERRITORY DAYS BRONZE: EMMA CRAWFORD COFFIN RACES AND PARADE

MOVER AND SHAKER GOLD: LINDA WEISE

The Colorado Springs Conservatory founder and executive director makes things happen in the arts scene, whether it’s reaching kids through her after-school arts preparatory program or supporting The Mezzanine, a downtown performance venue.

SILVER: NANCY HOLADAY, BLACK BOX THEATRE BRONZE: KEVIN LANDIS, UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO AT COLORADO SPRINGS

MOVIE THEATER GOLD: KIMBALL’S PEAK THREE THEATER 115 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 447-1945, 447-1947, kimballspeakthree.com

When it’s time to take in a flick, voters head downtown to the city’s only homegrown movie theater. They deem it “charming” and love pairing an independent film with a drink from the full bar. One voter’s praise: “Great selection of art films and a local business.”

SILVER: CINEMARK CAREFREE CIRCLE AND IMAX BRONZE: CARMIKE CINEMAS CHAPEL HILLS 13

MUSEUM GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER 30 W. Dale St., 634-5581, csfineartscenter.org

This is the go-to spot for aspiring artists, art aficionados and those who want a dash of culture in their lives. Founded in 1936, the institution has curated significant exhibitions dedicated to historic and contemporary regional art. “Frequent location for my son, who is studying to get his degree in art,” one voter said. “Dynamic, involved in the community, offers new and challenging exhibits, fun events, a meaningful place to volunteer, fun for the whole family,” another wrote.

SILVER: COLORADO SPRINGS PIONEERS MUSEUM BRONZE: WESTERN MUSEUM OF MINING AND INDUSTRY

MUSEUM EXHIBIT GOLD: “ELOQUENT OBJECTS: GEORGIA O’KEEFFE AND STILL-LIFE ART IN NEW MEXICO,” COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER

The international traveling exhibit featured a dozen O’Keeffe paintings and about three dozen works by 26 of her contemporaries. “We were fortunate to have the O’Keeffe exhibition, which only traveled to four museums in the entire country,” one voter said. “She is the most famous woman artist of the 20th century.”

SILVER: MAGIC TOWN AT THE MICHAEL GARMAN MUSEUM & GALLERY BRONZE: NO WINNER

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JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER

A&E: READERS’ PICKS

Thank you for voting the FAC

Best of the Springs!

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

STARGAZERS THEATRE AND EVENT CENTER

ACCreDiteD muSeum

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

Music lovers can agree — the dome-shaped building a short drive from downtown is the place to take in a local, regional or national act. Paula Cole, Gregory Alan Isakov, Louden Wainwright III, Royal Southern Brotherhood, Trace Bundy — all will have stepped on the stage at some point by year’s end. “Amazing talent, good acoustics, inexpensive pricing. (Owners) Cindy and John (Hooten) make it very welcoming,” one voter said. “Stargazers has super easy access and very friendly, accommodating staff,” another said. “The atmosphere gives the venue an at-home, private feel. Drinks are never watered down and are priced right.”

SILVER: PIKES PEAK CENTER BRONZE: THE BLACK SHEEP

PrOfeSSiOnAl theAtre

MUSICAL GOLD: “THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW LIVE” AT CLUB Q Club Q, 3430 N. Academy Blvd., 570-1429, clubqonline.com

Every October, the 1975 cult classic resurfaces with its transvestites, Transylvanians and raunchy good time. Fans loved the audience participation and actors at the LGBTQ nightclub.

SILVER: “THE MUSICAL ADVENTURES OF FLAT STANLEY,”

BY ACADEMY OF COMMUNITY THEATRE (ACT II) AND ACADEMY OF CHILDREN’S THEATRE (ACT) BRONZE: “IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS,” BY COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER

NONPROFIT ARTIST GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS CONSERVATORY 415 S. Sahwatch St., 577-4556, coloradospringsconservatory.org

Art SChOOl fOr All AgeS

During the last school year, the arts preparatory program founded by Linda Weise reached about 850 kids through its after-school program, partner programs and workshops. Voters approve of the organization’s healthy influence on young minds. “The best place on Earth,” one said.

SILVER: COLORADO SPRINGS CHORALE BRONZE: COLORADO SPRINGS YOUTH SYMPHONY ASSOCIATION

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JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

PIANIST NINA MILLER

NONPROFIT ARTS GROUP

PLAY

GOLD: BLACK ROSE ACOUSTIC SOCIETY 12530 Black Forest Road, Black Forest, 528-6119, blackroseacoustic.org

GOLD: “ARSENIC AND OLD LACE” BY FIRST COMPANY AT FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH First United Methodist Church, 420 N. Nevada Ave., 471-8522, fumc-cs.org

The organization is dedicated to providing all types of traditional acoustic music in the region, and voters love it. They praise the reasonably priced concert tickets and quality of local, regional and national acts. They also love the snacks at each show. “Brings top-notch roots and Americana performers to twice-a-month open stage shows,” one voter said, and “offers group music lessons, weekly jams — all very affordable and excellent quality.” “In the 24th season of bringing the best acoustic roots music to the Front Range,” another fan wrote.

SILVER: IMAGINATION CELEBRATION BRONZE: (TIE) COLORADO SPRINGS YOUTH SYMPHONY ASSOCIATION, SPRINGS ENSEMBLE THEATRE, COTTONWOOD CENTER FOR THE ARTS

PIANIST GOLD: NINA MILLER cdbaby.com/artist/ninamiller

The ballet pianist is a graduate of the Modest Mussorgsky College of Music and the Rimsky-Korsakov Saint Petersburg State Conservatory in St. Petersburg, Russia, and has performed in Russia, Finland, Portugal, Italy, Japan and the United States. Local fans love the way she accompanies performances by The Ballet Society of Colorado Springs and Zamuel Ballet School.

SILVER: LAUREN CIBOROWSKI (FORMERLY ANDRUS) BRONZE: (TIE) STEVE BARTA, THOMAS DAWSON

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Theatergoers loved the 1939 farcical black comedy by playwright Joseph Kesselring. “Exceptional quality ensemble of cast, great set and costumes,” one voter said. Another raved, “The two main women actresses were hilarious.”

SILVER: “CMPLT WRKS OF WLLM SHKSPR (abridged) [revised]”

BY BLACK BOX THEATRE BRONZE: “A LITTLE PRINCESS,” BY FIRST COMPANY AT FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

THEATER COMPANY GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER 30 W. Dale St., 634-5581, csfineartscenter.org

Voters loved the diverse selection of plays and musicals last year, including “Reefer Madness,” “4000 Miles,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Wait Until Dark” and “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas.”

SILVER: (TIE) THEATREWORKS, MILLIBO ART THEATRE BRONZE: FUNKY LITTLE THEATER CO.

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CITY LIFE 60 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

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CITY LIFE: EXPERT PICKS AROUND TOWN

A COUPLE YOU’D WANT ON YOUR TEAM PHIL AND ANITA LANE

LINDA NAVARRO linda.navarro@gazette.com/636-0374

LITTLE GUY WHO TAKES ONE FOR THE TEAM HARLEY milldogrescue.org/harley-to-the-rescue

Harley had a miserable life as breeding stock in a puppy mill, losing an eye when his cage was power washed. That was his hell for 10 years, and the tiny Chihuahua was close to death.

Instead, he was rescued, cuddled and loved and became the poster boy for National Mill Dog Rescue’s “Harley to the Rescue” fundraising campaign, which brought in more than $500,000, used to rescue several thousand other dogs. Harley, who was adopted by a family in Berthoud, then became the American Humane Association’s 2015 “American Hero Dog.” He and his Chihuahua BFF Teddy, also a rescue, wore their bandanas when they accompanied rescue missions, serving as a soothing influence for nervous, suddenly free, dogs. (Harley, 15, died peacefully at home in bed between his humans on the first day of spring.)

For one thing, the couple support the arts.

“If you look at all the great cities in the world, the best all have a long history and connection with the arts,” Phil was quoted when he and Anita were named grand honorees for the 2015 Fine Arts Center Black Iris Ball. Their support of the Fine Arts Center includes being enthusiastic FAC theater patrons and members of the Curtain Call Society, which focuses on ensuring there is a professional quality theater program. They serve on boards and head committees, wherever they’re needed.

Anita has loved musical theater since childhood. Phil sings along, including a wacky turn as a fruit-adorned Carmen Miranda.

They support the Colorado Springs Philharmonic and their alma mater, Northwestern University. Phil’s a sports enthusiast, golfer (he was co-chair of the U.S. Senior Open), a civic booster and instrumental in plans for the United States Olympic Museum. Anita and their daughters work with National Charity League, and she supports the Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival. She’s a doctor, he’s an investment management professional. Where do they find the time?

GOLD MEDAL COLLECTION TOUCHES THE WESTERN HEART JIM AND DONNA MAGUIRE

THE CHAMPION HOLIDAY MYSTERY FRIEND SECRET SANTA

Thank you, St. Nick. It’s hard to top this one. FedEx boxes arrived at the offices of local nonprofits right before Christmas.

Nothing unusual about that except each box contained much-needed, end-of-year Secret Santa donations: $50,000 each for Cheyenne Village, Silver Key Senior Services, Care and Share Food Bank for Southern Colorado and the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center.

There were $10,000 gifts for Rocky Mountain Field Institute and Garden of the Gods Foundation. Especially touching were the $50 Visa gift cards for the nonprofits’ fulltime employees.

Anonymous notes thanked everyone for the good work they do and asked only that they “accept this gift and spread joy.”

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These two are the mayors of Maguireville, a private world-class museum of the West.

Memorabilia fills two barns on their Monument property and dots the landscape. The personable couple know the history and story behind every museum piece — or Jim might just make it up — and can only laugh when asked if they’re through collecting.

Even the original Homestead Certificate for the land is there, signed by Ulysses S. Grant. The Maguires invite Air Force Academy groups to gather for Wild West events, and nonprofits and rodeo groups have held fundraisers at the little town. Hungry for Maguireville stories? Jim and his buddies swap tall tales in the mornings over coffee at Serranos Coffee Co. in Monument.

BEST REASON TO TAKE SATURDAY OFF EL TACO REY 330 E. Colorado Ave., eltacorey.com

The Aguilar family has built a large, loyal

following over the years, dishing up avocado and pork burritos, enchiladas and other Mexican dishes. Generations of the extended family help out in the tiny restaurant, where the walls are filled with Best of the Springs plaques. It has been this way since 1976, and customers know to expect the family to take time off for spring break and Christmas.

This year, the Aguilars announced El Taco Rey will be closed Saturdays. “You ask why?” they posted on Facebook. “It’s plain and simple. Our families are important to us.” Customers applauded.

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

EL TACO REY

PLACE OF CITY SOLITUDE WHERE KIDS CAN READ A BOOK JUDY NOYES CHILDREN’S GARDEN Penrose Library, 20 N. Cascade Ave., ppld.org

Judy and husband Dick owned a downtown treasure, The Chinook Bookshop, on North Tejon Street from 1959 to 2004.

Judy died in 2013; to honor her and her love of books, several generations who had spent time as kids in The Chinook Bookshop playhouse created a children’s garden just off busy Cascade Avenue at Penrose Library.

Hundreds and hundreds of children’s library books are just inside the door, an invitation for little ones to choose a favorite story and go march right outside to enjoy it.

CITY LIFE: EXPERT PICKS

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AN MRE (MEAL, READY-TO-EAT)

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www.BehrAndBehr.com WAY TO EAT LIKE A SOLDIER MRE LUNCH DAY The Home Front Cares, thehomefrontcares.org

Almost 700 local working folks honored Veterans Day and local military and veterans by tearing open lunch bags familiar to troops on the front lines, MREs (Meal, Ready-to-Eat). It was a curiosity for many but also a fundraising campaign by local nonprofit The Home Front Cares, which helps the families of deployed troops and military families with emergency needs. The prepackaged, self-contained meals, often preferred doused with hot sauce, are delivered to businesses. Hungry for an MRE? Just let THFC know.

YOUNG LEADER WHO TURNED TRAGEDY INTO HOPE WALDO WALDO 5K CREATOR CHELISE FOSTER, waldowaldo5K.com

They’re several thousand strong, goofball Waldos and Wendas in red and white stripes running the streets of Colorado Springs. It’s a 5K created by young philanthropist Chelise Foster after the tragic 2012 Waldo Canyon fire, and it’s going strong.

Foster, a mother and a photographer inspired by her time at Elope Costume Co., rallied family, friends and fellow runners to raise more than $100,000 so far for the Rocky Mountain Field Institute, Trails and Open Space Coalition and Waldo Canyon Firefighters Fund. Foster’s work led to her being named the 2015 NextGen Leadership in Philanthropy by Partners in Philanthropy/Center for Nonprofit Excellence.

Join her and the striped-shirt and beanie set Oct. 22.

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CITY LIFE: EXPERT PICKS

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

BRISTOL BREWING CO.

INSPIRED BEER NAME 300 DOLLAR ELVIS PHANTOM CANYON BREWING CO. 2 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 635-2800, phantomcanyon.com

STEPHANIE EARLS

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GAZETTE REPORTER

GAZETTE REPORTER

AFTERNOON PATIO WHISTLE PIG BREWING CO. 1840 Dominion Way, 598-1339, whistlepigbrewing.com

You’ve likely experienced it when enjoying a craft beer al fresco on a fine spring afternoon: Within a matter of seconds, it seems, the sun ratchets down and you’re plunged into shadow. Chilly, retreat-back-inside shadow. That’s not a concern at Whistle Pig Brewing, where a south-facing patio boasts 850 square feet to gather with friends for an unobstructed view of Pikes Peak. “It will stay warm a little longer because it’s on the sunny side,” brewery co-owner Eric Merrell said.

BEER SNACK COGSTONE BREWING CO. 3858 Village Seven Road, 418-6595, cogstonebrewing.com

Not that we don’t feel the pretzel love (Dough + butter + salt: What could go wrong?), but Cogstone Brewing Co. takes the concept a few steps beyond — and in a decidedly sugary direction.

Yes, we’re talking about the beignets fried in duck fat. Co-owner Marc Malenfant is a professional pilot who cherry-picked his marquee menu items dining at establishments around the nation and world. “Over the years, you take note, like, ‘Oh, this was good. If I ever have a place, this is something I’d like to do,’ ” Malenfant said.

We’re glad he followed through.

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Got an inside joke you’d like to share with the public? Tuck it in a beer name. Phantom Canyon’s 300 Dollar Elvis, a peanut butter and banana stout, was inspired by the Elvis impersonator who wed brewer Troy Johnson and his wife, Ruby.

FILL ’ER UP BRISTOL BREWING CO. 1604 S. Cascade Ave., 633-2555, bristolbrewing.com

If you enjoy sharing a good brew with friends, buying beer by the growler might be the way to go. Bristol Brewing will fill your growler for $6 at 3 p.m. Wednesdays and Sundays. It’s a great way to get your fill of Compass IPA or Laughing Lab Scottish Ale and still have money for snacks.

CATCH A SHOW IVYWILD SCHOOL 1604 S. Cascade Ave., 368-6100, ivywildschool.com

This local gathering space, a mix of community and commerce, is the coolest place in town to sip a microbrew while enjoying music or a film or lecture in an intimate setting. The old gymnasium at this former elementary school is the scene of regular eclectic gatherings. There’s a theater stage and plenty of room to groove if the music moves you, and Bristol’s beers are served on tap.

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

ACUPUNCTURIST GOLD: PEACEFUL POINTS ACUPUNCTURE 5265 N. Academy Blvd., 291-4006, peacefulpoints.com

Shelly Greene has the solution when pain hits, voters said. “I can’t begin to tell you how she helps me manage my back problems,” a voter said. “Professional, caring … plus, she is amazing.”

SILVER: NAWEI’S ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC BRONZE: TWIN TIGERS ACUPUNCTURE

AD AGENCY GOLD: VLADIMIR JONES 6 N. Tejon St., 473-0704, vladimirjones.com

It’s simply “the best in town,” voters said of the advertising and marketing agency.

SILVER: RED ENERGY PUBLIC RELATIONS, ADVERTISING & EVENTS BRONZE: (tie) BLAKELY + COMPANY INC. and TAPIA ADVERTISING

VLADIMIR JONES

MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

It’s not that far away…

KEY DATES:

Best of the Springs 2017 Nominations Nominations taken October 7 – November 6, 2016 Nominate your favorites for each category. Up to the top ten nominations will make the Best of the Springs ballot.*

Best of the Springs 2017 Voting

January 6 – February 19, 2017 Complete your ballot to determine the winners for 2017. *A nominee must receive a minimum of three nominations to be considered. Up to ten nominations will make the ballot except in certain tie-breaker situations. Nominations and voting will take place at gazette.com/bestof.

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/ VETERINARIAN GOLD: ASPEN VIEW VETERINARY HOSPITAL/ DR. JESSE WEBB 5925 Constitution Ave., 638-6363, aspenviewvet.com

Pet owners are picky about their animals’ care, and voters were enthusiastic about this practice. “Dr. Webb spent a lot of time discussing our pet’s condition and making sure we had all our questions answered,” one voter said. Another voter said, “They clearly explained the procedure that needed to be done on my pet.”

SILVER: NORTHWEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL & PET CARE CENTER BRONZE: WESTSIDE ANIMAL HOSPITAL

AUCTION GOLD: AUCTION HOUSE 109 109 S. Sierra Madre St., 632-5588, auctionhouse109.com

Voters have filled their homes with choice items auctioned here. Some found furniture or art. Others found collectibles and tools. They appreciate the ability to preview items online before each sale and leave silent bids on box lots.

SILVER: ROSS AUCTION BRONZE: CATHOLIC CHARITIES

AUCTION HOUSE 109

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

Find your best career.

Discover the difference of working for a mission-driven, faith based health care organization that puts people first – Centura Health.

If you’re looking for an opportunity where you can achieve your personal and professional best, we hire nearly every kind of talent.

From clinical and allied health, to business, food service and other support roles – we’d love to help you find a team and work setting where you’ll experience long-term success.

To learn more opportunities at St. Francis Medical Center and Penrose Hospital, as well as other positions in the Colorado Springs area, visit:

careers.centura.org or call 1-800-390-4166

Centura Health is an equal opportunity non-tobacco, non-nicotine employer, M/F/D/V 68 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

We would like to thank the community for voting us Best Of The Springs 2016.

Proudly offering quality plumbing, sewer, and HVAC services to the Pike’s Peak region for over 35 years!

2016

719-471-0713 www.affordableplumbingandheating.com

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS JACK QUINN IRISH ALEHOUSE & PUB

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

BANK GOLD: ENT CREDIT UNION Multiple locations, 574-1100, ent.com

Ent is, said an enthusiastic customer, “by the people and for the people” and “does the best it can, as if for a family member.” Said another voter, “Best service out of any financial institution in the Springs by far.”

SILVER: USAA FINANCIAL CENTER BRONZE: WELLS FARGO BANK

BAR WITH LIVE MUSIC GOLD: JACK QUINN IRISH ALEHOUSE & PUB 21 S. Tejon St., 385-0766, jackquinnspub.com

“The only place to hear amazing Celtic music,” voters said. “Good music, good food, good drink, relaxed atmosphere. What more could you want?”

SILVER: SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY’S BRONZE: BACK EAST BAR & GRILL

2016

Mom and dad were there for you – let us help you be there for them.

Home Care Assistance offers security for older adults and peace of mind for family members.

• Assisted living at home including those who suffer from Alzheimer’s, Parkinsons or recovering from a stroke or surgery • Our Caregivers are the best! Thoroughly screened, drug free, highly trained and compassionate Call today for a free consultation.

719-822-1229 I HCACOS.com B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

BED & BREAKFAST GOLD: OLD TOWN GUESTHOUSE 115 S. 26th St., 632-9194, oldtown-guesthouse.com

This B&B, tucked amid Old Colorado City’s eclectic shops, restaurants and activities, receives glowing recommendations and return business.

Said one couple: “If you haven’t been to this B&B you’re missing a real pleasure. We love the place.”

Said another voter: “Gracious hosts, beautiful views, private hot tubs, cozy fireplaces and delicious breakfasts.” The feature that thrilled another voter: There’s a Tesla super charger!

SILVER: AVENUE HOTEL BED AND BREAKFAST BRONZE: BLUE SKIES INN

BODY SHOP GOLD: WILLIAMS BODY AND PAINT 6210 Lakeshore Court, 638-4849, williamsbodypaint.com

This is the place that helps customers survive the need for repairs, minor or major. And it’s a multiyear Best of the Springs winner. One voter said Williams “found everything wrong with our car and fixed it A++++. Went the extra mile and then some.” This is a friendly crew, voters said, citing “good people” and “excellent customer service.” Said another, “they treat me like family.”

SILVER: RED NOLAND BRONZE: STATUS SYMBOL AUTO BODY

CAR WASH GOLD: WATER WORKS 525 S. Nevada Ave., 634-8536; 2253 La Montana Way, 599-7788; 1108 N. Academy Blvd., 596-3298; waterworkscarwashes.com

The way Water Works calls it: “We aren’t #1 … you are!” And customers say this car wash is “consistently excellent” — and has been for years.

SILVER: QUICK QUACK CAR WASH BRONZE: THE HUB CAR WASH AND DINER

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

OLD TOWN GUESTHOUSE

Thanks for Voting for Us!

Camp Bow Wow Colorado Springs First day FREE ® Campand Bow Wowdiscounts!

Colorado Springs military

Lets keep growing together!

COME IN for all your garden needs!

Call us for a FREE interview or in home consultation!

2016

Camp Bow Wow

Large Indoor & Outdoor Play Areas All Day Play & Snooze the Night Away® Live Camper Cams® Spacious Cabins with Comfy Cots

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721 Powers Boulevard

www.hardingnursery.com

Dog Walking Pet Siiing for All Animals In-Home Web Cam Rentals Pet Waste Clean up Services

Bow Wow Behavior Buddies • Get Expert Help from Certiied Trainers

Bow Wow Behavior Buddies • Get Expert Help from CertifiedHome Trainers Colorado Springs Central Colorado Springs East Buddies 4295 Northpark Drive

719.596.5712

Home Buddies

1020 Ford Street

719-287-1774

Colorado Springs, CO 80907 Colorado Springs, CO 80915 Buddies Colorado Springs Colorado Springs BehaviorBehavior Buddies 719-260-9247 719-573-9247 719-661-5045 719.260.9247 Central East

4295 Northpark Drive 719-260-9247

1020 Ford Street 719-573-9247

4295 Northpark Drive 719-260-9247

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

CASINO GOLD: BRONCO BILLY’S CASINO 233 E. Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek, 719-689-2142, broncobillyscasino.com

Voters doled out compliments for Bronco Billy’s employees: “friendly staff,” “fun staff,” “lovely people,” “they are all so friendly,” “love them.” They also gave nods to good and varied food, BierWerks brews and plenty of machines.

SILVER: WILDWOOD CASINO BRONZE: DOUBLE EAGLE HOTEL & CASINO

CHIROPRACTOR GOLD: THE JOINT …

THE CHIROPRACTIC PLACE 2008 Southgate Road, 3272 Centennial Blvd., 6044 Stetson Hills Blvd., 497-0695 chiropractorcoloradosprings-thejoint.com

Talk about a perfect name. Voters also appreciate the walk-in appointments, prices and “knowledgeable docs.” One said, “they fixed my neck with only going once!”

SILVER: ATLAS SPINE CENTER BRONZE: ROCKRIMMON CHIROPRACTIC

Do you

BUY IT BY 3PM AND SLEEP ON IT TONIGHT! 2016 2014-

THANK YOU

Colorado Springs for Voting Us Best Of 2016 ll only We se quality est h ig h he e th ds at t st bran prices t and be s e te low absolu olorado. in C

BO GOT B’S IT.

2016 2016

Quick Quack?

Come see why Quick Quack Car Wash is the Best of the Best!

Here’s a few hints:

• Free Vacuums • Unlimited Car Washes from only $14.99/mo.

Your Affordable Mattress Store North Academy Union and Academy 5002 N Academy Blvd 719-265-9371

South S Nevada Ave & Southgate Rd 719-473-4884

Monument 1785 Lake Woodmoor Dr 719-481-8111

4 LOCATIONS

Powers & N. Carefree 3715 Bloomington St., Suite 110 (Across from Ultimate Buffet)

719- 574-2865

FREE TIRE SHINE with any Wash!

Cannot be combines with any other offer. Expires 5/15/16

4285 Austin Bluffs Pkwy.

888-772-2792

535-BOBS BobsDiscountMattresses.com

Locally owned and operated Mon-Fri 10am-7pm • Sat 10am-6pm • Sun 11am-5pm B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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CLEANING COMPANY GOLD: PÜR ECO FRIENDLY CLEANING 1353 S. 8th St., Suite 211, 646-7580, purcleaning.com

“PUR is the best,” a voter said. Others agreed, giving the company a thumbs-up for “excellent customer service, quality work” and being “professional, thorough and always on time.”

One voter uses PUR “for all of my rental properties’ cleaning needs and my own. Love the small business.”

SILVER: PURITY CLEAN BRONZE: VERICLEAN

COMPUTER REPAIR SHOP GOLD: TECH FOR LESS 1610 Garden of the Gods Road, 886-8000, techforless.com

The customer service is tops, and computers are repaired quickly, voters said.

SILVER: COLORADO SPRINGS COMPUTER REPAIR BRONZE: COLORADO PC DR

CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE

TECH FOR LESS

Re-imagine Your Dream Home (719) 633-2202 Models Open Daily 142 South Raven Mine Drive 72 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

WWW.GOLDHILLMESA.COM

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

MOVE WITH A FACE YOU CAN TRUST

WE ARE THE MOVERS’ CHOICE! MATÉOS SALON & DAY SPA

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

DANCE CLUB GOLD: COWBOYS 25 N. Tejon St., 596-1212, cowboyscs.com

Scoot your boots and swing your country, Cowboys is a place for “great dancing,” voters said. “Love dancing here,” a fan said.

• Locally Owned and Operated since 1970 • Local, Long distance and Commercial moves

• An Agent for Mayflower Transit • Free in-home, no-obligation estimates available

573-3460

arrowmoving.net The Genuine. The Original.

SILVER: THE MANSION BRONZE: CLUB Q

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

Voters have given this spa a “gold” ranking since 2008. One voter cleaned out her thesaurus to describe Matéos: “Positively, absolutely, indubitably, uncategorically, plainly, totally, clearly, incomparably the best day spa in town!” Another made do with: “knowledgeable, friendly and just wonderful all the way through.”

SILVER: VEDA SALON & SPA BRONZE: VILLASPORT ATHLETIC CLUB AND SPA

DENTAL PRACTICE GOLD: BROADMOOR DENTAL 1930 S. Nevada Ave., 576-5566, broadmoordental.com

Compliments flow about this dental office. “I love the Broadmoor Dental family,” a voter said. They “made me feel right at home and were always able to schedule me.” Said another: “I love the care they provide.”

SILVER: LYDIATT AND DURU FAMILY DENTISTRY BRONZE: COMFORT DENTAL

Overhead Door Company of Colorado Springs, Inc.

Replacement Garage Door Experts!

Garage Doors & Openers Free Estimates • 24-hr Service/Repair

www.ohdcs.com 596-2171 • 1205 Ford St. • ovecs@aol.com

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the best family fun

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

fireworks every friday! fantastic theme nights and giveaways every weekend

skysox.com ADOPT • FOSTER • TRAIN 20 Mount View Lane, Suites B & C

719-264-6460

Call for information about the wide range of training classes offered.

2013-2016

Congrats to ABRT’s Lauren Fox, also voted Best of the Springs!

www.HaveANiceDog.org info.abrt@gmail.com

Connect & Inspire

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

JUDY KATZ WITH ALL BREED RESCUE AND TRAINING

DENTISTRY FOR KIDS GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 660 Southpointe Court, Suite 100, 596-2097, 9480 Briar Village Point, Suite 301, 522-0123, cspediatricdentistry.com

ElPasoCountyNatureCenters.com | Free Admission!

If only adults could be patients here, too, a voter said. One parent said a daughter “was made to feel comfortable and safe during what could have been a fearful process. They were wonderful!” An eight-year customer said each visit is “a positive experience.”

SILVER: SIMPLY KIDS DENTAL BRONZE: ROCKY MOUNTAIN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

DOG TRAINER

THANK YOU for Voting us Best of the Springs 2016!

2016

GOLD: ALL BREED RESCUE AND TRAINING 20 Mount View Lane, 264-6460, haveanicedog.org

$20 Off Any Service Expires 04/17/17

719-358-0637 www.purityclean.org 74 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

When Rover needs help behaving, owners come to All Breed.

“They helped make my dog a Canine Good Citizen,” one happy dog owner said. Another said: “All Breed’s positive relationship-based training methods deliver happy, well-mannered four-legged family members.” Other voters mentioned rescue dogs that are changed for the better: “They’re dedicated to the welfare, care and love of the many dogs that they rescue. They work very hard to find forever homes for their dogs.”

SILVER: SIT MEANS SIT BRONZE: ANGIE NEAL

THANKS AGAIN!

For voting us BEST OF THE SPRINGS!

To all our patients

We strive every day to improve our systems to protect and serve your healthcare needs. Thank you for recognizing our efforts and taking the time to let others know of your experience.

It is our honor to serve you and the needs of your family.

14 locations throughout the Pikes Peak Region.

For more information about Mountain View Medical Group visit

MVMG.com

MOUNTAIN VIEW MEDICAL GROUP

Our Lifestyle at LIBERTY HEIGHTS

CALL 719-387-1655 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SCHEDULE A PRIVATE TOUR!

Senior Lifestyle, a FAMILY OWNED COMPANY for over 30 years, is committed to creating communities that delight our residents and their families. Our dedicated team brings our mission and core values to life. We invite you to visit and

I N D E P E N D E NT LI V I NG | ASS ISTED LI V I NG S KI LLE D NU R S I NG | R E H A B | M EM O RY CA R E 12105 A M BASSA D O R D R I V E COLORA DO S PR I NG S , CO 80921 WWW.S ENI O R LI FESTYLE.COM

SEE THE DIFFERENCE FOR YOURSELF. B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

DOGGY DAY CARE GOLD: NORTHWEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL AND PET CARE CENTER 4575 N. Chestnut St., 593-8582, nwanimalhospital.com

When their humans go to work, doggies will romp and play. One of those humans said the family’s pup “loves going to Northwest. She gets so excited, knowing that she’s going.” Come warm weather, the pups can swim there.

SILVER: CAMP BOW WOW BRONZE: LUCKY DOG RESORT

ELECTRICIAN GOLD: BERWICK ELECTRIC CO. 3450 N. Nevada Ave., Suite 100, 632-7683, berwickelectric.com

Voters sing their praises for the electricians at Berwick: “Awesome to work with.” “Professional estimates and work.” “Best in the business.” “Must be doing things right, been around since 1921!”

SILVER: SWARTZ ELECTRIC BRONZE: THE WIRENUT

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

NORTHWEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL AND PET CARE CENTER

Aventa is proud to support our first responders with our First Responder Loan With over 30 years of combined experience

Dr. Ken Chmelka, Dr. Doug Schrepel, and Dr. Jesse Webb

are committed to providing quality friendly care.

We are located at

5925 Constitution Ave., Colorado Springs CO 80915

719-638-6363

www.aspenviewvet.com • apenviewvet@aol.com Mention this ad when scheduling an appointment and receive

15% off

your initial visit

We are AAHA Accredited, a member of the American Association of Feline Practitioners, and have been Voted Best of the Springs 2 years in a row.

If you work or volunteer as a first responder in the police, fire, military, or medical field, Aventa can make it easier for you to purchase the additional equipment that you need to perform your duties.

Details: • Fixed 3.00% APR* • Up to a 3-year term • $5,000 maximum loan amount* • No application fee For more information or to apply, give us a call at 719.482.7600.

aventa.com

We see all species including birds, reptiles, and exotics.

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*APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Credit subject to approval. Must meet loan qualifications.

Must be a current volunteer or be currently employed as a first responder or be a current first responder in the military, to qualify for this loan. Maximum term is 3 years. Maximum loan amount is $5,000. A loan amount of $5,000 at 3.00% APR would have monthly payments of $145.41. Rates are subject to change at any time. Federally insured by NCUA. Membership requirements apply.

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

ESTABLISHMENT FOR BRONCOS GOLD: OLD CHICAGO PIZZA & TAPROOM Multiple locations, 634-8812, oldchicago.com

Absolutely sure-fire location to spend game time with other fans.

And the food’s great, said voters.

SILVER: BUFFALO WILD WINGS BRONZE: THUNDER & BUTTONS

OLD CHICAGO PIZZA & TAPROOM

MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

Thank you to my clients & to Colorado Springs for 25 years in Real Estate, and for voting me Best of Realtor in Colorado Springs.

As lifelong Springs residents, we love where we live and believe you should too.

Call Mike today!

719-660-6793 ®

MIKE MACGUIRE

Broker | Owner mike@BuyWithMike.com www.MikesFeedback.com

The Family Practice was founded in 2004

by Dr. Robert Vogt. While the practice has grown over the years, the mission and vision for patient care has stayed the same – “to partner with patients to optimize their health by offering full spectrum care that considers the physical, emotional and spiritual dimensions affecting their well-being.”

The Family Practice is a nationally recognized Patient Centered Medical Home, having been selected after proving they are consistently striving to improve their patient care and experience.

2016

Thanks to all those who voted us Best of the Springs!

B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

EVENT DJ GOLD: SPRINGS SOUNDS ENTERTAINMENT 3617 Betty Drive, Unit B, 232-6038, springssounds.com

Brian Hepperle (573-0627, hepsdj.com) received many specific shout-outs among the talented DJs at this entertainment company.

“Hep” gets people up and dancing at parties, weddings and events, voters said. Not only is he “the coolest,” they said, he’s also “a funny dude.”

SILVER: RANDY RODRIGUEZ BRONZE: CELEBRITY DJ

EYE CARE/ OPTOMETRIST GOLD: ROCKRIMMON VISION SOURCE 6005 Delmonico Drive, Suite 140, 522-9393, visionsource-rockrimmonvision.com

Voters are a fan club for Dr. Jerry Hendricks: “Who doesn’t love Dr. Hendricks?” one asked.

Other voters’ compliments: “State of the art equipment.” “Punctual.” “Thorough.” “Professional.”

SILVER: PIKES PEAK EYE CARE BRONZE: BETTNER VISION

ROCKRIMMON VISION SOURCE

MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

QUALITY is our only job

• Friendly & knowledgeable staff.

• Certified technicians providing safe, reliable repairs.

• State of the art collision repair center.

• Lifetime warranty on all repairs.

• All insurance companies welcome.

2016

6210 lake Shore Court (Near Powers & Constitution) 719-638-4849 • www.williamsbodypaint.com

2016

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

55+ COMMUNITY

BROOKDALE MONUMENT VALLEY PARK

GOLD: BROOKDALE MONUMENT VALLEY PARK 10 W. Monument St., 377-6576, brookdale.com

“They are wonderful! My mom got the best care,” a voter said. Residents said they love living here.

SILVER: THE INN AT GARDEN PLAZA BRONZE: BROOKDALE SKYLINE

CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE

Luxury, EVERYWHERE you want to live.

Lake of the Rockies

Lakeside in Monument

The Estates at Rockrimmon West Colorado Springs

Villages at Wolf Ranch

North Colorado Springs

*Price, plans and terms are effective on the date of publication and subject to change without notice. Depictions of homes or other features are conceptual. Decorative items and other items shown may be decorator suggestions that are not included in the purchase price and availability may vary. ©2016 Century Communities

From the $300’s

From the $400’s

From the $300’s

Schedule your visit today • 303-268-8371

We do more... For less...

2016

Thank you Colorado Springs for making us #1!

(719) 243-1353 www.BullsEyePlumbing.com B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

FINANCIAL PLANNER GOLD: (TIE) ACCELERATED WEALTH 13570 Meadowgrass Drive, Suite 100, 466-5627, acceleratedwealth.com JASON CUNNINGHAM 1920 Vindicator Drive, Suite 107, 260-6148, edwardjones.com

It’s important to trust in your financial planner and to believe they are professional and know their stuff. Voters give their full support to these two planners.

SILVER: VAILSHIRE CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

FRANCHISED REAL ESTATE OFFICE GOLD: RE/MAX PROPERTIES Multiple locations, 576-5000, homescolorado.com

Voters were effusive in their appreciation for working with Re/Max agents.

SILVER: KELLER WILLIAMS CLIENTS’ CHOICE REALTY BRONZE: ERA HERMAN GROUP

MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

RE/MAX PROPERTIES

Thanks for Voting US Colorado Springs Best

of 2016 Winner

2016

2015

80 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

719-634-7177 www.SpringsWaste.com

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

FUN WAY TO SUPPORT CHARITY GOLD: PAWTOBERFEST FOR HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION Bear Creek Regional Park, 473-1741, hsppr.org

Furry creatures and their humans fill the park each year for a fun run/walk, costume contest and animal fair. (Stop by Sept. 17 for this year’s festivities.)

SILVER: THE WALDO WALDO 5K BRONZE: NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE’S DOG JOG

HAIR SALON GOLD: TONI&GUY SALON 1605 Briargate Parkway, Suite 123, 266-9277, toniguy.com

The stylists “help make your vision a reality,” a voter said. They’re “cutting edge and rock a good haircut,” another said.

SILVER: VEDA SALON & SPA BRONZE: B&CO

MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE FILE

PAWTOBERFEST FOR HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION

THANK YOU Colorado Springs for your Continued 2016 Support INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING • FREE ESTIMATES

Mention this ad and receive

10% OFF Give us a call today

www.amcpainting.com

719-574-3018 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

THE

WHEATON TEAM !

Exceptional Service, Extraordinary Results

Colorado Springs You’re the Best for Voting & Putting your Trust in Us! We Assisted 142 Families to Buy & Sell Real Estate in 2015!

Ranking Our Team in the Top 1% of the Pikes Peak MLS & The #1 Team at RE/MAX Properties, Inc.

VILLASPORT ATHLETIC CLUB AND SPA

COURTESY PHOTO

HANDYMAN/FIX-IT CONTRACTOR GOLD: HOMEFIX 3475 Briargate Blvd., Suite 200, 749-1788, homefixcos.com

Crews deliver speedy, efficient and excellent work, voters said.

SILVER: HANDYMAN HAPPENS BRONZE: MINUTEMAN HANDYMAN

HAULING COMPANY GOLD: IHAUL IMOVE 2430 S. Academy Blvd., 357-5865, ihaulimove.com

When you have to “get it out of here,” give this company a call, one voter said.

SILVER: ARROW MOVING AND STORAGE BRONZE: DONAN DELIVERY

HEALTH AND NUTRITION CLUB GOLD: VILLASPORT ATHLETIC CLUB AND SPA 5904 Prairie Schooner Drive, 522-1221, villasport.com/cs

Voters enjoy the atmosphere and classes at this fitness facility and spa and said Ladies Night is the best. Membership is a bit expensive but worth it, voters said.

SILVER: D1 SPORTS TRAINING BRONZE: YMCA

HOMEBUILDER

Jean & John Wheaton Zane Whitfield

719-536-4581 www.TheWheatonTeam.com Each RE/MAX franchise is Independently Owned & Operated

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GOLD: CLASSIC HOMES 6385 Corporate Drive, Suite 202, 592-9333, classichomes.com

Classic’s homes are found throughout the Colorado Springs area, including the Flying Horse, Banning Lewis Ranch, Wolf Ranch, Promontory Pointe and Forest Lakes communities.

SILVER: KELLER HOMES BRONZE: OAKWOOD HOMES

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

HOOKED ON HOOKAH

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

HOME CARE COMPANY GOLD: MGA PEDIATRIC HOME HEALTHCARE 476-0200, mgahomecare.com

This company “loves its families and employees,” a voter said.

“Genuine and caring.” One family said MGA “helped our youngest daughter get the care, help and therapists she medically needs.”

SILVER: TEAM SELECT HOME CARE BRONZE: ARMS OF AN ANGEL HOME HEALTH CARE

LodgeAtFlyingHorse.com

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

This multiyear Best of the Springs winner retains its place in the hearts of customers.

SILVER: HOOKAH EMPORIUM BRONZE: HOOKAH KING

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

Voters shared memories of special visits to The Broadmoor and extra-special meals they enjoyed there. “My husband and I met there!” one voter said. The hotel and grounds are “exquisite and elegant,” another said. “I want to live there.” Another summed it up simply: “5 Stars, enough said.”

FlyingHorseClub.com

SILVER: THE MINING EXCHANGE, A WYNDHAM GRAND HOTEL & SPA BRONZE: THE CLIFF HOUSE AT PIKES PEAK

HOUSE PAINTER GOLD: (TIE) EVOLUTIONARY PAINTING, 313-0770, facebook.com/evolutionarypaint AMC PAINTING, 5745 Industrial Place, Suite G, 574-3018, amcpainting.com

Voters agree: Experience is key when painting a house, and these two companies have gained locals’ trust over the years. Voters noted their prompt and professional work.

SILVER: GREG UNSETH PAINTING & EXTERIORS

FlyingHorseColorado.com

H.   F H C D.

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IMPRESSIVE OUTING GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

One of the most beautiful spots anywhere now has an updated and interactive Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center. Garden of the Gods never ceases to inspire. Said one voter: “Its beauty is provided by nature. There are no words to express.”

SILVER: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO BRONZE: PIKES PEAK SUMMIT

IN HOME CARE PROVIDER GOLD: NURSE NEXT DOOR 368-1695, nursenextdoor.com

Voters appreciate Nurse Next Door’s compassionate care when it is most needed.

SILVER: MGA PEDIATRIC HOME HEALTHCARE BRONZE: MGA HOME HEALTHCARE

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE OFFICE GOLD: THE PLATINUM GROUP 6760 Corporate Drive, Suite 300, 536-4444, platinumhomesales.com

“Awesome,” a voter exclaimed. “Mike MacGuire and team are fantastic. Professional and thoughtful. The best of the best.” Said another: “They work hard for their commissions.”

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

GARDEN OF THE GODS

SILVER: BLUE PICKET REALTY BRONZE: PINK REALTY

Where do you want to go?

Escape

Relax Serving the Pikes Peak Region Since 1978 Hanson HotSpring Spas is dedicated to providing you with the highest-quality products and service you’ll find anywhere.

Aspen Auto Clinic will get you there.

Soothe

2016 Connect

For the love of the road.

6 Convenient Locations • 719.419.8575 • AspenAutoClinic.com 84 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

Over 30 years of BBB accredited A+ Rating

We bought our first hot tub from Hanson HotSpring Spas in 1999 — and it lasted 16 years! When it was time for a new spa, there was no question where to go.

– Ryan J, Colorado Springs

719.593.7727 | 1835 Dublin Blvd | hansonspa.com

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS STATE FARM

Danke Schön

to our loyal customers for over 46 years!

MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

INSURANCE COMPANY GOLD: STATE FARM Multiple locations, statefarm.com

The company’s advertising resonates with voters: “State Farm is there.”

SILVER: USAA BRONZE: AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE

KARAOKE BAR

• Bakery items prepared on premises • Specializing in European Sourdough Rye Breads, Assorted Kaiser Rolls and Bavarian Soft Pretzels • Imported European Lunchmeats, Cheeses, Bratwurst and Dry Goods

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

“Thunder and Buttons is my jam,” a happy karaoke fan said. Sing along with him and other crooners from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays.

SILVER: DUBLIN HOUSE BRONZE: GOOD COMPANY BAR

2321 Bott Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80904 719-634-6313 wimbergers.com

Cosmetic - Preventative General & Restorative Dentistry • Comfortable Setting • Advanced Treatments • Convenient Location & Hours

Where Colorado Smiles Come Alive 6665 Delmonico Dr., Suite C www.springsdentistry.com •719.599.5700

2014–2016

Thank you to our patients for their continued support!

B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

Thanks for your support

COLORADO SPRINGS!

(we’re honored)

2016

We have over 39 years of experience providing the very best Title & Escrow services within El Paso County.

We look forward to working with you on your next transaction.

BUSINESS LAW GROUP

MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

LANDSCAPER GOLD: TIMBERLINE LANDSCAPING 2480 N. Powers Blvd., 638-1000, timberlinelandscaping.com

What can you say that hasn’t already been said, voters asked about this multiyear Best of the Springs winner? The company strives to create little bits of heaven for its customers — homeowners, business owners, hotels, even the Olympic Training Center. Crews also score points for installing outdoor holiday decor.

SILVER: ACCENT LANDSCAPES BRONZE: BELLA GIARDINO LANDSCAPE & GARDEN DESIGN

LAW FIRM GOLD: BUSINESS LAW GROUP 90 S. Cascade Ave., Suite 840, 355-8840, businesslawgroup.us

Call us today!

This firm, which grew from the private practice of business attorney Adam Weitzel, specializes in business law. The team “advocates for the small business community … none better,” a voter noted, and is “Capable, honest, ethical, trustworthy.”

SILVER: MCDIVITT LAW FIRM BRONZE: THE BUSSEY LAW FIRM

LAWYER GOLD: ANDREW BRYANT 14 E. Costilla St., 634-7353, andrewbryantlaw.com

North Office 1150 Kelly Johnson Blvd., Suite 140 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 phone 719.592.9933

Downtown 90 South Cascade Ave., Suite 950 Colorado Springs, CO 80903 phone 719.639.7810

www.heritagetco.com 86 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

This criminal defense and family law attorney is a former prosecutor. Clients called him caring and knowledgeable, and several voters said he was the guiding force through difficult divorces and custody battles.

SILVER: ADAM WEITZEL BRONZE: MICHAEL W. MCDIVITT

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

MASSAGE THERAPIST GOLD: MASSAGE ENVY 750 Village Center Drive, 473-9900; 3254 Cinema Point, 574-9900; 9235 N. Union Blvd., Suite 120, 623-1750; massageenvy.com

One voter said a massage here relieved “excruciating pain.”

SILVER: CAMINO MASSAGE THERAPY BRONZE: J.C. BODY CARE

MECHANIC GOLD: TIRE WORLD Multiple locations, tireworldinc.com

Tire World is a family tradition, according to voters. “Somehow they have kept our old cars running for 18 years,” one voter said.

Another said the neighborhood Tire World has taken care of the family’s auto service for more than 20 years. A 15-year customer calls the mechanics “beyond the ‘Gold Standard.’ ”

MASSAGE ENVY

CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE

719-354-2626 • 1750 E. Woodmen www.skyzone.com/coloradosprings

SILVER: HONEST ACCURATE AUTO SERVICE BRONZE: ASPEN AUTO CLINIC

MEDICAL PRACTICE GOLD: MOUNTAIN VIEW MEDICAL GROUP Multiple locations, 590-1177, mvmg.com

Voters said they never have to wait for their appointment times and the staff really cares about patients.

SILVER: THE FAMILY PRACTICE BRONZE: DUBLIN PRIMARY CARE

Thank you for your votes!

Mon-Thurs: Buy 1 - Get 1 Half Off for Open Jumps!

$20 OFF a Birthday Party!

Meet Britnee.

She loves Star Trek and thinks physics is fun. After transferring to PPCC from a university, she discovered her confidence and passion. She will graduate with a degree in astrophysics and we’re certain her natural curiosity and motivation will send humans to Mars. Make it so, Britnee.

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

MORTGAGE COMPANY GOLD: ENT CREDIT UNION Multiple locations, 574-1100, ent.com

Ent is notable for its excellent service, dependability and low interest rates, voters said.

SILVER: ACADEMY MORTGAGE BRONZE: PEOPLES MORTGAGE

NAIL SALON GOLD: ENVY NAILS AND SPA 3367 Cinema Point, 597-1995, envynailsnspa.com

It’s that glass of wine with the mani-pedis that makes some voters smile. And, they said spa staff “do good work. They are luxurious and make me feel glam every time.”

SILVER: NAIL DESIGNS BRONZE: RED ROCK NAILS

NEIGHBORHOOD GOLD: BRIARGATE

It “has that old-fashioned, friendly neighbor feel,” voters said. Residents said they know their neighbors and “schools are excellent.”

ENVY NAILS AND SPA

SILVER: OLD COLORADO CITY BRONZE: ROCKRIMMON

JEF F KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

Proudly Providing 99 Years of Plumbing and Heating Services to the Pikes Peak Region

FPO 2016 Best of 2016 logo here th

olsonph.com w

ANNIV E RSARY

ww

.olsonph

(719) 635-3563

m .co

24 hours a day, 365 days a year, we’re here to help!

• Plumbing - All Types

• Air Conditioning

• Heating

• Maintenance

• Boilers (719) 635-3563 88 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

• Sewer Repair/Lining olsonph.com

Building Our Reputation for 99 Years

When the

BEST

matters most

2015 2016

Thank you for voting Atlas Best of the Springs.

Proudly serving serving Colorado Colorado Springs for 15 16 years Proudly 5490 Powers Center Point Suite 148, Colorado Springs CO. 80920 719-822-2950 • www.TheAtlasSpineCenter.com

SCHEDULE TODAY

Senior and Military Discounts

TEAM UP with us for RV Maintenance All Year!

• Missed RV checkups could lead to thousands of dollars of unnecessary maintenance over your RV’s lifetime • Comprehensive RV & Motorhome, Fifth Wheel & Pop-up Camper Service • Automotive, Fleet, Diesel and Tire Service Available

719-425-2284

11145 East U.S. Hwy. 24 • Falcon, CO 80831

www.premierautoandrv.com B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

NONPROFIT GOLD: HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION 610 Abbot Lane, 473-1741, hsppr.org

“Over 10,000 animals adopted! How awesome is that,” said one animalloving voter. Another described the local Humane Society as “an organization of heartfelt, compassionate people that supports our community and provides so many services to help our animals.”

SILVER: NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE BRONZE: SPRINGS RESCUE MISSION

PEDIATRIC PRACTICE GOLD: DUBLIN PRIMARY CARE 2685 Dublin Blvd., 592-9890, dublinprimarycare.com

This has been the pediatric group of choice for families for many years. “Dr. (Bruce) Kautz is the best in the city,” said a voter.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION

JERILEE BENNETT, THE GAZETTE

SILVER: IRON HORSE PEDIATRICS BRONZE: MOUNTAIN VIEW MEDICAL GROUP

Location. Style.

Selection.

You could spend your whole life searching for a home that’s a perfect fit, or you could spend your whole life living in one. For the best in location, style, and selection – nothing beats a Classic.

Classic Homes.

From Your First Home To Your Last, We’re With You All The Way.

classichomes.com 90 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

Find Your Child’s Creative Essence

Now Enrolling for Spring Afterschool Classes & Summer 2016 Instrumental Music, Vocals, Theater, Composition, Jazz, Pop, Opera, Musical Theater, Recording Arts, Dance and so much more for ages 4-19 For a complete listing of classes, programs, upcoming performances and events go to our website csconservatory.org • 719-577-4556 “Congratulations to the Colorado Springs Conservatory for the second consecutive [Arts Schools Network] national distinction. We are fortunate to have this great institution serving thousands of students in our region for more than 20 years. Thank you for contributing to the economic vitality of our region and your commitment to community advocacy. We wish you the very best!”

— John Suthers, Mayor, City of Colorado Springs

Friends of the Conservatory

G

Courtesy of GE Johnson Construction

WHERE ELSE IN COLORADO SPRINGS?

Unique Performance Experiences-Something for everyone’s taste FROM JAZZ TO

OPERA FROM

BURLESQUE TO BRAHMS

Listings & Reservations at

themezzcos.com

Alley entrance behind 20 N. Tejon St. Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 577.4556 #themezzcos G

Visit CCTigers.com/Tickets Email David.Bailey@coloradocollege.edu Call (719) 389-6324 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

PERSON WHO MAKES A DIFFERENCE GOLD: THERESA STRADER

Theresa Strader and her National Mill Dog Rescue volunteers have been guardian angels for thousands of dogs in breeding mills across the country, saving them from death or lives of misery.

SILVER: LAUREN FOX BRONZE: PATRICIA YEAGER

PERSONAL TRAINER GOLD: JOE RAMIREZ 2360 Montebello Square Drive, 229-2639, trainwithjoe.com

Joe Ramirez has been the Best of the Springs top trainer since 2010.

Voters give high praise to his Boot Camp, personalized home visits, and motivation and leadership skills. They said he helps clients achieve “amazing results.”

SILVER: MICHELLE COFFMAN BRONZE: AARON BLACK

PET BOARDING GOLD: NORTHWEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL AND PET CARE CENTER 4575 N. Chestnut St., 593-8582, nwanimalhospital.com

While the family is away, pets can stay here where piped-in music and a tropical aquarium aid in relaxation. Dogs go for walks and felines enjoy “cat condos.”

SILVER: CAMP BOW WOW BRONZE: LUCKY DOG RESORT

92 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

NORTHWEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL AND PET CARE CENTER

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

PET GROOMER

PET RESCUE

GOLD: NORTHWEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL AND PET CARE CENTER 4575 N. Chestnut St., 593-8582, nwanimalhospital.com

GOLD: NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE 5335 J D Johnson Road, Peyton, 445-6787, milldogrescue.org

The groomers here attract people looking for tender loving care and a bit of pizzazz for their pets.

SILVER: WAG N’ WASH BRONZE: STUBBY’S DOG WASH & GROOMING SALON

Voters appreciate the organization’s continued efforts to rescue, rehabilitate and find homes for dogs living in breeding mills — almost 10,000 to date.

SILVER: HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION BRONZE: ALL BREED RESCUE AND TRAINING

Thank you for your votes!

Best Travel Agency in Colorado Springs Knowledge Experience Convenience Sally

Barb

Kenny

Connie

MaryAnn

Maria

7330 N. Academy Blvd. just north of Woodmen Rd., next to David’s Bridal

We’re here to make your travel dreams come true!

2016

719-591-2222

AAA.com

Keller Homes Lookey Loos are cordially invited. www.kellerhomes.com

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

PHILANTHROPIC BUSINESS GOLD: MARCO’S PIZZA Multiple locations, marcos.com

Voters saluted Marco’s Pizza as an “outstanding community supporter” and said: “They are the most giving, caring owners of all time, helping so many people from all walks of life with job opportunities.” Not only that, voters love the pizza.

SILVER: ERA SHIELDS REAL ESTATE BRONZE: ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF COLORADO SPRINGS BARGAIN BOX

PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE GOLD: FALCON PHYSICAL THERAPY Multiple locations, 495-3133, falconpt.com

Voters like the one-on-one care, knowledgeable staff members and choice of seven locations.

SILVER: JOINT EFFORT REHAB BRONZE: ACTION POTENTIAL PHYSICAL THERAPY

PLACE TO PLAY POOL GOLD: PHANTOM CANYON BREWING CO. 2 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 635-2800, phantomcanyon.com

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

BILLIARDS AT PHANTOM CANYON BREWING CO.

94 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

Voters loved the convenient downtown location, “comfortable and relaxing environment with great beer” and free pool on Mondays.

SILVER: OLD CHICAGO PIZZA AND TAPROOM BRONZE: ANTIQUE BILLIARD MUSEUM

Creating a little bit of

heaven

Design & Installation • Landscape & Water Management • Outdoor Lighting Sprinklers & Irrigations • Christmas Decor • Trail Construction Thank you for voting Timberline Best of the Springs!

2016

Call us today for an estimate 719.638.1000 info@timberlinelandscaping.com | www.timberlinelandscaping.com B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

PLACE TO PROPOSE GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St.

One of the most beautiful and memorable locations for a proposal ever, amid towering red sandstone with Pikes Peak as a backdrop.

SILVER: THE BROADMOOR BRONZE: PIKES PEAK SUMMIT

PLACE TO VOLUNTEER GOLD: MARIAN HOUSE 14 W. Bijou St., 475-7314, ccharitiescc.org

“They provide over 600 meals a day, along with clothes, health, housing and many other services,” noted one voter. Another said of the workers: “Super people.”

SILVER: HABITAT FOR HUMANITY BRONZE: (TIE) SPRINGS RESCUE MISSION, CASA OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION

PLUMBER GOLD: BULLSEYE PLUMBING HEATING & AIR 3320 N. Hancock Ave., 243-1353, bullseyeplumbing.com

Customer service is “stellar,” said a chorus of voters. One added the crews perform a “fantastic job and are always ready to address my issues with a few of my rentals.”

SILVER: AFFORDABLE PLUMBING AND HEAT BRONZE: OLSON PLUMBING & HEATING CO.

MARIAN HOUSE

NOW ENROLLING FOR

Medical Assistant LEARN MORE TODAY!

800-639-5627 pmi.edu

ALSO ENROLLING: ®

Trusted. Respected. Preferred.

Colorado Springs 3770 Citadel Drive North Colorado Springs, CO 80909 For consumer information visit pmi.edu/consumerinfo

* Online - prerequisites required 96 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

Certificate Programs • Dental Assistant • Medical Administrative Assistant • Pharmacy Technician • Veterinary Assistant Associate Degree Programs • Health Care Administration* • Veterinary Technician

Celebrating 95 Years of Service Excellence Whether a project calls for lighting a waterall as beautiful as our very own Seven Falls in Colorado Springs or the complete electrical and special systems for a new Veteran’s Affair Clinic, Berwick Electric is up to any challenge. www.berwickelectric.com 719.632.7683

THE GAZETTE FILE

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER GOLD: (TIE) JESSICA NEWMAN PHOTOGRAPHY 930-8539, jessicanewmanphotography.com HEATHER SAMS FINE PORTRAITS 13710 Old Pueblo Road, Fountain, 930-8126, hsfineportraits.com SILVER: (TIE) MADDOX & CO. PHOTOGRAPHY DICKINSON-DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY

RADIO PERSONALITIES GOLD: JOHNJAY AND RICH My 99.9, my999radio.iheart.com

They’re “hilarious,” said more than one voter.

Thank You Loyal Customers and Gazette Readers!

SILVER: BOBBY BONES BRONZE: CAPTAIN DAN

RADIO SPORTS SHOW

2016

GOLD: JIM ROME SHOW KCSF Xtra Sports Radio 1300 AM, xtrasports1300.com

Listeners sound off about the sports news of the day as this syndicated host tackles some of the hottest issues. “He keeps me caught up on all my sports,” said one voter. Another tunes in because “he irritates me, so I have to listen to disagree.”

SILVER: MC SPORTS DAILY BRONZE: THE SPORTSGUYMIKE SHOW

426 S. Tejon St • 719.475.8589

THANK YOU for voting us

the best!

Providing our students real-world learning using state-of-the-art technology giving them the skills and abilities to help them succeed whether they are going into the workforce or transferring to a university.

Expect More. Get More.

EnrollPCC.ORG B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS 103.9 RXP

“The Best” Means

THE BEST! You’ve voted us Best Mortgage company several times and we never take it for granted.

Thanks to our thousands of valued customers and thanks to you for taking the time to share your support!

And if you haven’t yet, contact us about a Home Sweet Home loan for you!

epeoples.com 98 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

COURTESY PHOTO

RADIO STATION GOLD: 103.9 RXP 1805 E. Cheyenne Road, 634-4896, 1039RXP.com

Voters listen because it’s a local station playing a “great variety” of music.

SILVER: 99.9 KVUU BRONZE: (TIE) 91.5 KRCC, Q102.7 KBIQ

REAL ESTATE - RELOCATION GOLD: BLUE PICKET REALTY 4291 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Suite 103, 357-7653, bluepicketrealty.com

Agents follow up with customers after the closing, said voters, and they care about each client. Voters shared many compliments for agent Prince Porter.

SILVER: RE/MAX BRONZE: ERA SHIELDS REAL ESTATE

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS THE R

E

A

L

T

O

S®

R

OF

6760 Co 2013

Platinum Group,

Gorgeous Home Near Golf & Pool!

3 Bed 3 Bath 2 Car

South West

Country Club Village

4225 McPherson Ave $109,000

12853 Royal Birkdale Rd ~ $195,000

7818 Kettle Drum St ~ $229,999

1815 S. 8th Street ~ $234,900

4115 Little Crown Ln. $249,900

Adorable 3BD/3BA/2CAR Two- Story Home Located in a Great Neighborhood by Falcon Town Center. Community Rec Center w/Pool & Golf Just Blocks Away! Newer Flooring, Interior Paint & Appliances included! Large Garage & Spacious Yard for RV Parking.

Buying or selling a home is a personal experience and voters complimented this Realtor for “one of the best sales experiences I have had, regardless of what it was.” Added a happy client, “John is a very honest man. He has a hard work ethic. I would recommend John.”

SILVER: MIKE MACGUIRE BRONZE: BEHR & BEHR

RELOCATION OFFICE GOLD: THE PLATINUM GROUP 6760 Corporate Drive, Suite 300, 536-4444, platinumhomesales.com

This company cares about the relocation details, said voters. “A great company.”

SILVER: ERA SHIELDS REAL ESTATE BRONZE: ERA HERMAN GROUP

REMODELING COMPANY GOLD: HOMEFIX 3475 Briargate Blvd., Suite 200, 749-1788, homefixcos.com

Bobbi Price, Jade Baker, & Stephanie Hawt 719-499-9451 www.bobbiprice.com

Lis Ne tin w g!

Lis Ne tin w g!

J Lis us te t d

GOLD: JOHN HERMES Re/Max Properties, 2630 Tenderfoot Hill St., Suite 100, 576-5000, thehermesteam.net

Bj Burns Team 719-339-9876 Kimberly Amis 719-233-5119

Mike Carter 719-510-4998

Like new 2168 sq. ft. remodeled 3 bed bath end unit rancher town home in Broa New windows, doors, trim, molding, paint, counters, decorative tiling, railing, walls & ceilings, vanities, trim, base hardware, lights, & complete new plum electrical through out * Expanded enclose Vaulted ceilings * A/C * Total 1-level finished basement * 2-car attached garag or wood burning fireplace * HOAs insure exterior maintenance, snow, trash, & insurance is all taken care of * District 12.

Centrally Located - Amazing Views!

MOVE-IN READY!

12165 Gila River Trail $389,900

1811 N Nevada Ave ~ $409,000 ~ Old North End

Northgate

1163 Westmoreland Rd. ~ $304,900

6068 Mapleton Drive ~ $374,900

Beautiful Horse Property in Latigo Trails

Remodeled Gem in Old North End!

1925 Coldstone Way $409,900

The Demos Team 719-338-8110 BrentDemos.com

Debbie Reardon ~ 719-955-8525 6068Mapleton.IsThePerfectHome.com

Nate Banet 719-640-0274 www.TheBanetGroup.com

MacGuire Team 719-536-4321 Photos & Tour @ SeeThatHome.com

Stunning 4BR/4BA/3C Home Is Beautifully Maintained W/Fully-Fenced Treed Backyard. Two-Story Foyer Adjacent To The Formal Living & Dining Rooms. Kitchen W/Custom Tile Backsplash, Double Oven, Plenty Of Cabinet & Counter Space, Center Island & Walk-Out To Partially-Covered Patio. Step Down To The Great Room W/Gas Fireplace, Built-In Entertainment Center & Wall Of Windows. Main Level Office W/Built-In Shelving & French-Door Entry & Laundry Room W/Sink. Upstairs Is The Master Retreat W/5pc Bath & Walk-In Closet, 3 Bedrooms & Full Bath. Finished Basement Features Rec Room W/Full Wet Bar, Game/Play/Exercise/Craft Room, Home Theater & Full Bath. A Must-See Home!

House has been restored and updated, combining function with form! Fully landscaped large lot, with detached garage and alley access. Gleaming wood floors in most rooms; cork flooring in the family room. Updated kitchen with slab granite counters, stainless steel appliances, subway tile backsplash and tile floors, gas range and copper sink. Huge fenced, landscaped yard out back, with walkouts from kitchen and family room.

Wide, welcoming foyer! Master has private bath, and walk-in closet. 13'x12' open foyer area. 8'x8' space between dining room and family room, not enclosed, but could be used for a multitude of purposes. Conveniently located near Colorado College, I25, Patty Jewett Golf Course, and Steele Elementary.

Almost 5 acres and includes 5 bed/4 bath/2 car garage with beautiful Hardwood floors throughout main level, granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances over 3000 square feet. 36x40 barn with 4 stalls, wash room, heated tack room and 12x40 upstairs storage area. There is also a 24x24 workshop/Garage/Man Cave!

Excellent views of Pikes Peak and located on a Cul-de-sac!

Laurie Klipfel 719-661-5353 www.LaurieKlipfel.com

Immaculate rancher in D-20 w 4 bed, 3 car and over 3300 SF. Open floorpl spacious great room & stone fireplace. G Kitchen w granite counters, upgraded app pantry, breakfast bar & nook. Main leve retreat offers luxurious 5-pc bath, w/i Entertain in finished basement family ro billiards area. Spacious secondary bedroo office/workout room. Beautifully landscap offers front range views, large stamped c patio and deck. New carpet, window sprinklers.

LIS NE TIN W G !

TO BA BL CK U S FF !

VIE V W IEW S! S VIE !

W S!

Unbelievable open front range views - Close to University Village & hiking/biking trails First time on the market, new in 2001 - Main level living at its finest - Main level master suite - Newer roof, new stucco & ext. paint & garage door - Kitchen has granite countertops & all appliances - Finished basement - Professionally landscaped - 5 bdrms, 4 baths, 2 car, 2,940 s.f. - So much attention to detail in this home!

for Voting The Platinum Group, Realtors Best Of Independent Real Estate Company for 5 Years in a row!

Move-in Ready in Peregrine! D-20!

Peregrine Beauty! D20 Schools!

Mountain Shadows

Northgate

625 Winding Hills $535K

2545 Himalaya Court ~ $419,900

8430 Melross Court ~ $479,900

5825 Wilson Rd ~ $495,000

13681 Northgate Estates Drive ~ $514,900

Custom W/O Ranch on .65ac Lot

Dianna Dalton-Daily 719-661-0270 www.dailyhomesales.com

Anne Marie Flynn 719-536-4312

Dean Weissman 719-499-6124 www.DeanWeissman.com

Main-Level Living At Its Finest In This Spacious 5BR/5BA/4C Two-Story W/Open Floorplan Backing To Private Bluff In Desirable Peregrine! Formal Living & Dining Areas. Two-Sided Stairway Descends Into The Great Room W/Wood-Burning Stove, Floor-To-Ceiling Stone Hearth, Vaulted Ceiling & Wall Of Windows.

Kitchen Features New Granite & New SS Appliances, 2 Counter Bars, Spacious Dining Area & Walk-Out To Private Deck & Yard. Master Suite W/Dual Closets & Updated 5pc Bath, 3 Bedrooms - One A Junior Master Suite W/Full Bath Complete the ML. Upper-Level Loft Makes A Great Office Or Studio W/Full Bath. Walk-Out Basement Boasts 2 Rec Rooms, Kitchen Area, 5th Bedroom & Bath. RV-Height Garage Door!

Convenient to Colorado Springs, Air Force Academy & Denver * Awesome open rancher in sought after Northgate Estates w/ mountain views * Gourmet kitchen w/ slab granite counter tops, knotty alder cabinets, stainless steel appliances * Great room w/ vaulted ceilings, wall of windows & stone accented fireplace * Master suite w/ sitting area, 5 piece bath & walk-out to covered patio * 2nd bedroom on main level a bonus * Lower level boasts theater room adjacent to step behind wet bar, large rec area w/ stone accented fireplace, dedicated billiard area & 2 additional bedrooms w/ Jack & Jill bath * Dual H2O heaters, central air & humidifier a bonus * This is a must see!

Outstanding Woodmoor Custom Home, Private *Wall Of Windows in the Vaulted Great Rm Cap View of Waterfall & Trees*Ideal for Gatherings, Rm & Gourmet Kitchen Flow Together*Kitchen Slab Granite, Maple Cabinetry w/Crown Moldin SS Appl*Main Level Spacious Owners Suite, L Shopper Size Closet*Finished W/O Basemen Bar/Kitchenette*Pvt Backyard Sacturarty Area,Cascading Waterfall, FlagStone Patio & Line for Grill/Firepit*2 Secondary BR's on Mai Spacious Br's in Basement *Oversized Garage*AC*Vaulted Ceilings*Wide Plank Tile F Baths*Main Level Laundry*Easy Access to I25*

Linda Lafferty 719-955-8590 Aerial Tour youtu.be/8zUYWR

O ve Po rlo nd oks !

Debbie Reardon 719-955-8525

Light and bright 6 bedroom, 4 bath Mountain Shadows home with unobstructed city & mountain views. 4 bedrooms upstairs includes master suite with 5 piece bath and sitting area.

Kitchen opens to family room and offers island with down draft range, pantry and granite countertops. Formal living room custom touches include chair rail and crown moulding. Formal dining rooms, laundry and half bath complete the main level. Basement offers 2 garden level bedrooms, recreation room with fireplace and a wet bar. $495,000.

Rea dy

5BR/4BA/2C With Main Level Master & Walk Out Basement On A Cul-de-sac W/Sweeping Mountain Views! Remodeled Kitchen Features Gas Cooktop In The Center Island, Built-In Computer Desk, Dining Nook & Walk-Out To Trex Deck. 2-Story Great Room Features NewGas FP W/Floor-To-Ceiling Stonework & Hardwood Floors. ML Master Retreat W/5PC Bath & His-And-Hers Walk-In Closets. Also On The ML: Living Room, Dining Room & Laundry Room. 3 Bdrms & Full Bath On The Upper Level. Basement Features A Rec Room W/Wet Bar & Walk-Out To Patio/Yard, Bedroom & 3/4 Bath - The Perfect Guest Retreat & Storage Room !

In Immaculate Move-In Ready Condition !

M ove -In

Ac 35 re s

REALTOR

A Rare Find. 3 bed room 2 bath room Brick Rancher in good condition. Needs some updating but ready for family as is. Lots of Beautiful woodwork. The attached 1 car garage has been turned into a large enjoyable family room. Can be easily turned back into a garage, theater room or play room. The detached garage is a dream shop or man cave.

Basement offers a large bed room & bath room.

Plenty of storage available here. Great Home for entertaining. Large Covered patio and fenced back yard. Desirable South West area. A definite Must See! MLS #8507298

Great 2 story home that is move in ready.

This home is located close to shopping, schools, and plenty of entertainment! The exterior and interior paint are new, along with new carpet through out! This home is available for quick possession.

Dianna Dalton-Daily 719-661-0270 www.dailyhomesales.com

SE A E MU H S O T M E!

Skip Johnson 719-660-0791 Skip@SkipJohnsonGroup.com

COURTESY PHOTO

LIS TE D

THANK YOU COLORADO SPRINGS Mountain Feel in the City! Near Palmer Park

Amazing 29,428 sqft lot located within the city that feels like being in the mountains- true Colorado Lifestyle living at its best! Pikes Peak & Front Range Mountain views w/ perfect lot for a walk out basement. Wonderful treed lot w/ scrub oak, plenty of pine trees and rock outcroppings.

The adjacent 1.5 acre lot is also available.

Surround yourself by natures beauty on this private, treed flag lot that will make the perfect site for your forever home-great build site.

Highest elevation lots in the neighborhood- saved the best for last.

THE PLATINUM GROUP

JU ST

C U O N N D TR ER AC T

C O SO M O ING N !

H W om a e lk-O Lo u ca t tio n

Choosing the Right Real Estate Company DOES

Old North End

Spectacular Teller County Home

D-38 Schools

Old North End

Custom Rancher Backs to Hodgen Pond

1503 Culebra Place ~$575,000~

258 Star Gate Heights - $699,000

17840 Queensmere Dr. $724,900

1431 Wood Avenue ~ $749,900

3862 Hodgen Pond ~ $875,000

Anne Marie Flynn 719-536-4312

MacGuire Team 719-536-4321 Photos & Tour @ SeeThatHome.com

Kim Carper 719-536-4444 www.kimcarper.com

Anne Marie Flynn 719-536-4312 AnneMarieFlynn.com

Behr and Behr Team 719-536-4359 www.behrandbehr.com

Fabulous Mid Century Modern home located on a tree lined street in the Historic Old North End w/ 4 Beds/3 Baths and 3 car drive thru garage. Amazing location w/in easy walking distance to unique shops & restaurants of downtown. Main lvl offers lg living rm w/ gas fireplace, built ins and beautiful wood floors, a formal dining rm, kitchen w/ eating area, guest bath & a bonus family rm/reading rm w/ french dr leading the beautiful private fenced b/yard w/ towering trees & alley access. Upstairs has a large Master Bedrm w/ his & her closets, private attached full bath, french drs to balcony, additional 3 bedrms and full bath. Basement has second family rm/office w/ built ins & tons of storage areas. Chose from 2 laundry areas, 1 upstairs & 1 in the basement.

Attention to Detail, Artistry & Craftsmanship define this 3 BR, 3 BA, 3 car rancher on 35 picturesque acres offering panoramic views of Pikes Peak, Mt. Pisgah and the Sangre De Cristo mountain range.

Stunning living room with three foot barrel arches, beamed ceilings, 8 ft glass doors lead to the courtyard. Kitchen with custom Maple Cabinets, granite counter tops, Bosch appliances. Master Suite features Kiva fireplace, attached bath with Italian tumbled marble. Spectacular out-door living spaces, endless views and perennial flower gardens wrap around the home.

AWESOME entertainers dream in the woods!

Open bright floor plan. Kit open to great room features double ovens, Dacor downdraft, built in fridge. Main level w/study, formal dining, HUGE mud and laundry area and stunning master suite w/walkout deck access! Lower level w/fabulous rec space, 3 sided fireplace,walkout to backyard.

Three additional beds in lower level w/attached baths-huge bedrooms w/ extensive storage!

Landscaped lot, circular drive,security system, NEW Timber Tech deck, and beautiful hard woods!

Totally and beautifully renovated in the heart of the ONE. All the joy of an elegant, turn of the century 5 bdrm, 5 bath home yet with amenities of today. Step into the delightful entry and be captivated by this lovely home. This stunning property has more than you could hope for and is the best of both worlds. Filled with lovely, sunlit space it is a true joy to show. This home sits on a large, corner lot that is beautifully landscaped, fenced and complete with secluded deck..just right for a glass of wine and quiet conversation.

This custom home is only minutes aw COS and has all the modern convenie city living w/ the privacy on acreage.

Alder doors & trim-Radiant Heat o level-Epoxy coated garage floor-Tong groove ceiling in great room-Backs to Pond & walking trails-Wine Cellar bar-Home Theatre-Wolf Gas cook Stainless Steel Appliance's. This home all, must see to truly appreciate build 5,350sqft 4bd 5ba 5car 2.5 acres

Choosing the Right Real Estate Company DOES Make a Difference

Call us today:

719-536-4444

Satisfied customers added to their votes praise such as “excellent service and a timely remodel,” “great work and integrity.”

SILVER: CRAFTSMAN BASEMENT FINISH CO. BRONZE: ALL ABOUT THE HOUSE

RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT GOLD: FLYING HORSE 2409 Flying Horse Club Drive, 886-4800, flyinghorsecolorado.com

Voters said Flying Horse epitomizes “the Colorado lifestyle” and they enjoy the luxury homes, athletic club and spa and 18-hole Tom Weiskopf golf course.

2016

SILVER: WOLF RANCH BRONZE: BANNING LEWIS RANCH

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

RETIREMENT HOME GOLD: MACKENZIE PLACE 1605 Elm Creek View, 963-5427, mackenzieplace.tritoncommunities.com

Voters said the saltwater pool and spa, concierge, and life in the cottages or assisted living help them enjoy retirement, adding they “love our later years here.”

SILVER: MORNINGSTAR AT MOUNTAIN SHADOWS BRONZE: BROOKDALE SKYLINE

SHOE REPAIR GOLD: BON SHOE REPAIR 2129 N. Weber St., 635-9952

This shop is busy because it satisfies customers, voters said. One voter appreciated the staff ’s honesty, noting you’ll be told if your shoes aren’t worth the repair cost.

SILVER: ANDY’S SHOE REPAIR BRONZE: WESTSIDE BOOT & SHOE

TAILOR GOLD: MYRNA’S TAILOR SHOP 1020 Ford St., 550-8600, on Facebook

Voters note the quality work, fair price and timely delivery. “I would never go anywhere else,” said one voter. Another said: “Myrna always gets my clothes to me 10 times better than the way I gave them to her.”

SILVER: THE BUTTON, THE NEEDLE AND THE WARDROBE BRONZE: DEBBIE’S CUSTOM SEWING AND ALTERATIONS

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

PENS & NEEDLES CUSTOM TATTOO CO.

Thank You for voting us Best of the Springs 3 years in a row!

2015

2016

DON’T MOVE ALONE...

We are a TEAM of individuals committed to a high standard of excellence in meeting the needs of our clients and balancing this commitment with the personal and professional needs of ourselves, our families, our associates, and our community.

2016

719.593.1000 toll free 1.800.888.8208

Call us today for all your electrical needs and find out for yourself why we’re the best.

TWO convenient Colorado Springs office locations

719-457-2218

Professional. informative. Powerful.

www.SwartzElectric.biz

www.ERAShields.com

2345 Academy Place, Suite #204 Colorado Springs, CO 80909

©2016 ERA Franchise Systems LLC. Each ERA® Office is Independently Owned and Operated. ® is a registered mark of ERA Franchise Systems LLC.

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS 2318603_17464 H&R BLOCK 3.819x10.375 4c

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

TATTOO PARLOR GOLD: PENS & NEEDLES CUSTOM TATTOO CO. 716 N. Weber St., 287-5605, 3737 Drennan Road, 391-7367, pens-needles.com

Voters appreciate the variety of artists and “the cleanest tattoo parlors in town.” One voter drives from Wyoming “to get amazing work done.” Several voters said Pens & Needles artists fixed mistakes done elsewhere.

SILVER: WEST SIDE TATTOO BRONZE: INK INERTIA CUSTOM TATTOO AND ART GALLERY

Thank you Gazette readers for voting Wells Fargo ‘Best Bank’*

TAX PREPARER GOLD: H&R BLOCK Multiple locations, hrblock.com

A tax time tradition that earned “thumbs up” from voters.

SILVER: PAUL NELSON, NELSON & CO. BRONZE: YOUR TAXLADY

Thank you to all of our customers for voting for us for the 2nd year in a row!

The Treasure Shoppe,

LLC

Beautiful selection of antiques, collectibles, and unique gifts.

Sure to be one of your most “treasured” stores!

BOOTHS AVAILABLE

All Sizes

No Commissions Wall space, cupboards & display cases available too!

Our bankers live and work in your community and know that good relationships make us all stronger. By getting to know you, our experienced bankers can offer customized tools and services tailored to meet your financial needs.

Proudly serving Colorado Springs with 13 locations. wellsfargo.com

OPEN 7 DAYS Mon-Sat. 10 am - 6 pm Sun 12 pm - 4 pm 324 E. Pikes Peak Avenue Corner of Wahsatch & Pikes Peak 719-465-1692

*Readers’ poll, 2015, The Gazette © 2016 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. (2318603_17464) B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

TITLE COMPANY GOLD: EMPIRE TITLE 5755 Mark Dabling Blvd., Suite 110, 884-5300; 350 N. Pine St., Woodland Park, 686-9888; etcos.com

Empire is “really on top of the market trends,” said a voter. “Service oriented, friendly and accommodating.”

SILVER: UNIFIED TITLE CO. BRONZE: HERITAGE TITLE CO.

TRASH COMPANY GOLD: BESTWAY DISPOSAL 650 Santa Fe St., 633-8709, bestwaydisposal.com

“Unbelievable customer service,” “pleasant and courteous” and “they go out of their way to make a difference,” voters said of this company that “helps the elderly” and “brings your trash container back to the front door on a windy day.”

SILVER: SPRINGS WASTE SYSTEMS BRONZE: WASTE MANAGEMENT

TRAVEL AGENCY GOLD: AAA Colorado 7330 N. Academy Blvd., 591-2222, aaa.com

The AAA reputation carries weight, voters said, and they’ve used the local office for years to plan and book domestic and international travel.

SILVER: CHARLIE BROWN’S GOODTIME TRAVEL

TV ANCHOR GOLD: DIANNE DERBY KKTV 11, co-anchor of 4:30, 5:30, 6:30 and 10 p.m. news shows, facebook.com/Dianne11News

Viewers consider her the consummate television news professional who has remained “very approachable.” “She’s smart and creative and cares about Colorado Springs,” one voter said. Another has this compliment: “She’s always professional, her attire is always classy and appropriate” and “I don’t want anyone else informing me what is going on in the world!”

SILVER: JAMES JARMAN BRONZE: HEATHER SKOLD

COURTESY PHOTO

DIANNE DERBY

Colorado Springs 5086 North Nevada • (719) 599-4112 Mon-Thur: 9am-7pm • Fri-Sat: 9am-8pm Sun: Closed nothingbundtcakes.com 102 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

TV NEWS SHOW GOLD: CHANNEL 13 NEWS AT 10 KRDO NewsChannel 13, krdo.com

Advantage Realty, Inc.

SILVER: KOAA NEWS 5 BRONZE: KKTV 11

CELEBRATING

“They do a great job and have great personalities,” said one voter.

Another said the news anchors are “fun and informative.”

TV SPORTS GUY GOLD: ROB NAMNOUM KRDO sports director, twitter.com/robnamnoum

Sports fans said Namnoum “knows his stuff and he’s fun to watch.”

One voter added: “We love his nuttiness.”

SILVER: SAM FARNSWORTH BRONZE: GRANT MEECH

19 Years

TV WEATHER ANCHOR GOLD: RACHAEL PLATH KRDO chief meteorologist, facebook.com/RachaelPlathStormtracker13

She’s “very professional and knowledgeable of our weather,” said one weather watcher. “By far the best weather person on any station, with a smooth delivery appreciated by even the weather dummies,” said another. Voters also appreciate the time Plath devotes to visiting schools to teach children about weather.

SILVER: BRIAN BLEDSOE BRONZE: MIKE DANIELS

Thanks to our staff, our Broker Associates, our clients, and our fellow REALTORS®.

We care about our people, we care about our clients, and we care about our relationship with other Brokers.

Our goal is to always bring value to the table.

“How may we serve you?”

Ranked in the Real Trends Top 500 Brokerages

24/7 info on any listed property: Choose to Receive Info via 3 Mobile Technologies:

Aggressive. Dedicated. Experienced.

Colorado Springs Criminal Defense, DUI, and Family Law Attorney 2015

2016

Advantage

Voice, Text, or Mobile Web

Call 719-362-5555

Enter the Street Number

Or

Text Street Number to 719-362-5555

www.ColoradoAdvantage.com Contact us directly at 719-548-8600 5590 N Academy Blvd. (at the entrance to University Park)

Or visit our website at www.andrewbryantlaw.com

Colorado Springs, CO 80918 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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VETERINARY PRACTICE GOLD: ASPEN VIEW VETERINARY HOSPITAL 5925 Constitution Ave., 638-6363, aspenviewvet.com

Aspen View is staffed with excellent doctors who work well with animals, said voters. “Best vet in town, hands down. I’ve taken over a dozen pets to them over the past 20 years or so — always caring, knowledgeable and professional,” said one voter.

SILVER: YORKSHIRE VETERINARY HOSPITAL BRONZE: BIJOU ANIMAL HOSPITAL

VIDEO PRODUCTION GOLD: BOSHA VIDEO 1324 N. Nevada Ave., No. 7, 761-8386, boshavideo.com

Said a voter: “If you want a fresh perspective, Bosha is a great choice! Every video I’ve seen by Bosha amazes me.” Said another, “Their videos are absolutely amazing.”

SILVER: ABSOLUTE VIDEO MONTAGE BRONZE: WINDSTAR STUDIOS

VOLUNTEER GOLD: JUDY KATZ

Said one voter of Katz: “A beautiful woman with a heart of a giant. She gives of herself tirelessly as she volunteers for All Breed Rescue.”

SILVER: RUDI TAYLOR BRONZE: (TIE) CAREN CLARKE, STEPHANIE DOWDELL

WEDDING CAKES GOLD: BOONZAAIJER’S DUTCH BAKERY 610 E. Fillmore St., 264-0177, dutchpastry.com

Happy brides said the cakes were delicious and beautiful. Said one, “They did my cake and it was phenomenal, and they provided a one-year-later anniversary cake complimentary.”

SILVER: LITTLE LONDON CAKE SHOPPE BRONZE: THE SUGARPLUM CAKE SHOPPE

WEDDING DJ GOLD: RANDY RODRIGUEZ Randy Rodriguez Entertainment, 310-9290, randysinatra.com

Their wedding wouldn’t have been the same without him, said a happy couple. Enthused another voter: “Randy even had the grandparents on the dance floor with his enthusiasm. We had an amazing time.”

SILVER: BRIAN HEPPERLE BRONZE: SPRINGS SOUNDS ENTERTAINMENT

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER GOLD: TINA JOINER PHOTOGRAPHY 964-0168, tinajoinerphotography.com

Tina is professional, caring, creative and patient, said a voter. One couple said, “Tina took our 50th anniversary vow renewal photos and captured the emotions so perfectly.”

SILVER: AMANDA LAMB PHOTOGRAPHY BRONZE: TRYSTAN PHOTOGRAPHY 104 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

BOONZAAIJER’S DUTCH BAKERY

CITY LIFE: READERS’ PICKS

THE PINERY AT THE HILL

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

WEDDING PLANNER GOLD: SK EVENT SPECIALISTS 619-300-3018, skeventspecialists.com

“Stephany (Knierim) makes it fun,” said a bride. “Incredible attention to detail.” “Stephany puts her heart into her work and loves what she does. Her enthusiasm is contagious,” said another voter.

SILVER: SWAN HOUSE MANOR BRONZE: SARAH VIERA EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN

WEDDING VENUE GOLD: THE PINERY AT THE HILL 775 W. Bijou St., 634-7772, thepinery.com

Voters love the incredible setting with its sweeping views of the city and mountains. “They care about the bride and groom” at The Pinery, one voter added.

SILVER: THE BROADMOOR BRONZE: SPRUCE MOUNTAIN RANCH

WINDOW TREATMENT GOLD: PIKES PEAK INTERIORS 2110 Hollow Brook Drive, 238-6044, pikespeakinteriors.com

Hunter Douglas window coverings and custom draperies earned a thumbs-up from voters who also said they enjoyed working with the company.

SILVER: GRANDE OPENINGS CUSTOM WINDOW COVERINGS BRONZE: (TIE) PELLA WINDOW AND DOOR, THE BLIND MAN

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FAMILY: EXPERT PICKS

RUB ELBOWS WITH A RIO GAMES MEDAL WINNER U.S. OLYMPIC TRAINING CENTER 1 Olympic Plaza (Boulder Street at Union Boulevard), 866-4618, teamusa.org

DENA ROSENBERRY Catalyst Creative

Roughly 200 Summer Games athletes live at the training center as they pursue their dreams of Olympic gold. Stop by for a guided tour and you might meet a world-class boxer, gymnast, wrestler or triathlete. Swimmers visit for intensive training, fencers face off on nine pistes and marksmen practice at the third-largest indoor shooting center in the world. Test your time in a sprint, take a photo with the Olympic rings, and learn about the latest physical and mental training used by some of the world’s best athletes. You’re sure to leave inspired.

GAZE AT OLYMPIC GLITZ WORLD FIGURE SKATING MUSEUM AND HALL OF FAME 20 First St., 635-5200, www.worldskatingmuseum.org

Learn about the world’s best figure skaters — and see some amazing costumes! — at this one-of-a-kind museum. You can relive skating’s magical moments through films and photographs and leave knowing the difference between a lutz and a salchow.

THE GAZETTE FILE

OLYMPIC TRAINING CENTER

AL PH AB ET

S

READING

WRITING

Young Scholars Academy Moms love being the Young Scholars Academy Family!

Come see why!

Where children ofYoung learning Momsa part loveof being a develop part ofa love the Scholars

Academy Come why! provider in early education programs • Your child will develop a lovefamily! of learning • Asee recognized • Family-owned and operated 1995 • Your child will develop a love ofsince learning • A recognized719-522-9099 provider in early education programs • Family-owned and operated since 1995

2015

“Theteachers teachers and Scholars “The andstaff staffatatYoung Young Scholars Academy are and theythey Academy arelike likeaafamily family and treat you as if you are part of it!”

Anne W. W. treat you as if you are part of it!” – Anne

2016

Call today! 719-522-9099 www.YoungScholarsAcademyColorado.com Call today! 719-522-9099 • www.YoungScholarsAcademyColorado.com 5815 Tutt Center Point • Colorado Springs, CO 80922 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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FAMILY: EXPERT PICKS

JERILEE BENNETT, THE GAZETTE

CLIMBING AT CITYROCK DURING ROCKY MOUNTAIN STATE GAMES

MEET COLORADO NATIVES — AND TRANSPLANTS

LEARN TO LOVE THE OUTDOORS — AT ANY AGE

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

UPADOWNA, upadowna.org; KIDS ON BIKES, kidsonbikes.net

America’s only mountain zoo gets better every year. If you haven’t visited in a while, be sure to check out Rocky Mountain Wild, where you’ll get a close-up visit with the locals, including moose, mountain lions, lynx, grizzlies, river otters and bald eagles. Transplants living on the side of Cheyenne Mountain include tigers, leopards, hippos, gorillas, elephants and one of the largest giraffe herds at any zoo. Don’t miss the ground-level wolf viewing, the meerkats’ antics and 3-year-old lion cubs Aslan, Boma and Elsa.

TRAIN FOR THE 2018 (OR 2020?)

OLYMPICS SQUAD ANY PARK, TRAIL, ICE RINK, GYMNASIUM, TRACK, ROCK WALL OR OTHER TRAINING FACILITY IN THE REGION

Hike the Manitou Incline? There’s a decent chance the guy passing you is on Team USA. Zipping through the curves of Cheyenne Canyon? Those cyclists hitting 40-plus mph might be on the podium in Rio. The Pikes Peak region is home to many natural and man-made playgrounds. There are hills to climb on your bike, topshelf track and field facilities, fencing centers, ice rinks, specialty gyms and retired amateur and professional athletes who work as trainers and coaches. Just starting out as a runner? Join the Jack Quinn’s Running Club for camaraderie and support, then graduate to the regular Pikes Peak Road Runners races. Ready to put on some real miles? Seek out CRUD, a group of ultra runners who will pace you to your first Hardrock 100 finish. Sure, you’ll need to go elsewhere to scull or sail or skeleton or ski jump, but you can train for just about every other athletic competition somewhere in our backyard. So get moving.

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Two local efforts to share the outdoors with a few friends have grown into groups focused on encouraging people of all ages to get outside, get involved in the community and foster a respect for the environment. Never tried stand-up paddleboarding or rock climbing? UpaDowna will ease you onto the water or up a wall. Is your bicycle gathering dust? This summer, join UpaDowna’s weekly pedal party or Kids on Bikes’ weekly PopCycle Ride and meet your new cycling buddies. UpaDowna’s adventurers will lead your family on a hike, teach you to set up a tent and give you the lowdown on trail snacks. The Kids on Bikes crew will share knowledge of local trails and safety tips and even provide free bikes to motivated children.

FIND A HIDDEN GEM ROCKY MOUNTAIN MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM AND HALL OF FAME Inside Pikes Peak Harley-Davidson, 5867 N. Nevada Ave., 487-8005, themotorcyclemuseum.com

We love our motorcycles here on the Front Range, and this is a great place to see a bit of two-wheeled history. This museum, run by an all-volunteer staff, is home to more than 75 original and fully restored examples of vintage Indian, Harley-Davidson, Excelsior, Ariel, Mustang, BSA, Honda, Cushman, Panther and Triumph motorcycles, dating from 1913 to 1983. Learn about motoring pioneers and see pins, patches, trophies, banners and vintage leathers representing clubs and competitions from across the country.

FAMILY: READERS’ PICKS

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM GOLD: YMCA Multiple locations, 473-9622, ppymca.org

It’s easy to have fun at the Y, voters said, because there are so many classes and sports. “They always offer safe, affordable and reliable activities for all ages,” one voter said. Another praised “wholesome, kid-friendly, affordable, great programs,” and added, “Love the gymnastics class, basketball clinics and swim lessons.”

SILVER: U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER BRONZE: ACADEMY OF CHILDREN’S THEATRE

ARTS SUMMER CAMP GOLD: BEMIS SCHOOL OF ART 818 Pelham Place, 475-2444, artschool.csfineartscenter.org

Whether your kids want to try their hand at watercolors, create puppets, throw a pot or explore the world through a camera lens, there is a Bemis class focused on their interests and geared to stretch their abilities. One voter noted that scholarships often are given to students, “encouraging them to develop their artistic talents.”

SILVER: ACADEMY OF CHILDREN’S THEATRE BRONZE: MILLIBO ART THEATRE

CHRISTIAN SUMMER CAMP GOLD: EAGLE LAKE The Navigators, 272-7453, eaglelakecamps.com

Who doesn’t want a summer filled with zip-line rides, archery, canoeing, hiking, songs, games and more? “There are few limits to what you can do and no limits to what Christ can do in you,” Eagle’s leaders promise. One voter said simply: “Best camp ever!”

SILVER: CAMP ELIM BRONZE: GOLDEN BELL CAMP

COLLEGE FOR ASSOCIATE DEGREE GOLD: PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGE Main campus, 5675 S. Academy Blvd., (800) 456-6847, ppcc.edu

Earning an associate degree at this school is convenient and economical, and you’ll receive a good education that you can put to use right away. Voters also like “great instruction for skills/talents” for jobs that do not require a four-year degree. One voter praised the nursing program. Another said, “I love the instructors and the resources they provide.”

SILVER: PUEBLO COMMUNITY COLLEGE BRONZE: COLLEGEAMERICA

COLLEGE FOR BACHELOR’S OR MASTER’S DEGREE GOLD: UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO AT COLORADO SPRINGS 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 255-8227, uccs.edu

Individualized attention and assistance throughout each student’s time on campus impressed voters, as did the facilities and growing acclaim for programs as varied as education, health and entrepreneurship. One voter was impressed by its “many programs, well-informed professors, convenient class times and beautiful campus.”

SILVER: COLORADO COLLEGE BRONZE: REGIS UNIVERSITY

YMCA

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

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SKY ZONE TRAMPOLINE PARK

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

CONTINUING EDUCATION

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

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

GOLD: SOARING EAGLES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Harrison School District 2, 4710 Harrier Ridge Drive, 540-4000, soaringeagles.hsd2.org/pages/SoaringEaglesES

Classes are offered days, nights and weekends on campus and online to help meet each student’s goals. The university strives to “advance knowledge, integrate student learning with the spirit of discovery, and broaden access to higher education for the benefit of southern Colorado, the state, nation and world.”

SILVER: THE INDEPENDENCE CENTER CNA SCHOOL BRONZE: PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGE

DAY CARE CENTER GOLD: YOUNG SCHOLARS ACADEMY 5815 Tutt Center Point, 522-9099, youngscholarsacademycolorado.com

Teachers say they focus each day on activities to stimulate children’s physical, social, emotional and intellectual growth, and programs are geared to specific age and maturity levels. The grounds feature plenty of play equipment, and there’s a new indoor gym and arts area that gets a workout when it’s cold outside. “This school is amazing!” a voter said. “Our son has grown so much, the faculty is just so involved with the kids and the families. It feels like a big family.”

SILVER: SUNSHINE LEARNING CENTER BRONZE: EARLY CONNECTIONS LEARNING CENTER 110 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

Parents and students say the teachers and staff are dedicated to education, and it shows in students’ achievements. “We feel like our kids are growing and learning so much,” one voter said. Another said: “This magnet school has set the bar high for my student and always encouraged growth!”

SILVER: JAMES IRWIN CHARTER ACADEMY BRONZE: THE CLASSICAL ACADEMY

FAMILY FUN CENTER GOLD: SKY ZONE TRAMPOLINE PARK 1750 E. Woodmen Road, 354-2626, skyzone.com

Jump on trampolines, dive into foam pits, slam dunk with the best and join a bouncy game of ultimate dodgeball — all while laughing up a storm and burning a few calories. Folks of all ages and fitness levels love to play here. One voter said: “A great place to spend an afternoon, or celebrate a special birthday!” Another noted that it’s “reasonably priced, fun for all ages.”

SILVER: BRUNSWICK ZONE BRONZE: LITTLE MONKEY BIZNESS

FAMILY: READERS’ PICKS

HIGH SCHOOL GOLD: LIBERTY HIGH SCHOOL Academy School District 20, 8720 Scarborough Drive, 234-2200, asd20.org/Schools/lhs/Pages

Voters said the curriculum is amazing and students are given opportunities to explore their interests and succeed. “Liberty cares about all of its students. Every single kid who walks through those doors freshman year walks out senior year with a solid education,” one voter said. “Excellent teachers, curriculum and technology,” another voter said. “The principal or assistant principal attends all fine arts concerts/performances.”

SILVER: JAMES IRWIN CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL BRONZE: ST. MARY’S HIGH SCHOOL

HOME SCHOOL GOLD: D20 HOME SCHOOL ACADEMY 1110 Chapel Hills Drive, 234-1473, asd20.org/Schools/hsa/Pages

The academy aims to offer programs and resources that enrich home-school instruction. One parent said the program is “super accessible, family friendly and just plain amazing! Our children are utterly immersed in the teacher’s love for learning. It’s wonderful!”

Another shared kudos for the “creative programming, experienced and caring faculty, and nurturing environment.”

SILVER: HIGH COUNTRY HOME EDUCATORS BRONZE: FALCON HOMESCHOOL PROGRAM

LIBERTY HIGH SCHOOL

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

Jerry Hendricks, O.D. • Keely Knoche, O.D. • Brenda Begin, O.D.

 Comprehensive family eye care  Treatments for eye injuries and diseases  Latest in progressive multifocal lens technology  Most durable lenses and treatments in the industry  Exclusive 2 year warranty on all eyeglass frames  Large selection of designer eyeglass frames  Contact lens specialists

Thank You For Voting Us Best of 2016

Lafont • Nike • Kate Spade • Vera Wang • Fossil Banana Republic • Oakley • Calvin Klein • Costa del Mar 6005 Delmonico Drive, Suite 140 • Colorado Springs, CO 80919 719/522-9393 • www.RockrimmonVision.com B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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MIDDLE SCHOOL GOLD: TIMBERVIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL Academy School District 20, 8680 Scarborough Drive, 234-3600, asd20.org/Schools/tms/Pages

Parents weren’t the only ones showering praise on Timberview; students wrote their own notes. “It is simply amazing and anyone who disagrees is a weirdo!” one said. Another shared: “The school’s atmosphere is super awesome and all the teachers are amazing, kind and understanding. We also have the best principal ever!” The school is so great, another said, “I don’t want to leave for high school!” A parent said: “Timberview Middle School has made my daughter love school again. She has challenging classes and feels safe and welcome amongst her peers. Well done!”

SILVER: JENKINS MIDDLE SCHOOL BRONZE: JAMES IRWIN CHARTER MIDDLE SCHOOL

PLACE TO CELEBRATE BIRTHDAY GOLD: SKY ZONE TRAMPOLINE PARK 1750 E. Woodmen Road, 354-2626, skyzone.com

The birthday boy or girl and all the guests will flip over a party here. Guests can use the trampolines, Foam Zone and SkySlam hoops and fuel up on pizza and ice cream in a private party room. “Great atmosphere and very friendly staff. Clean and well supervised. Great value for your dollar,” a voter said.

SILVER: BRUNSWICK ZONE BRONZE: TRAMPOLINE WORLD GYMNASTICS

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

Parents heaped praise on the classroom environment and teaching. “The teachers strive to teach the children practical skills and more,” one voter said. “I would recommend to anyone wanting their children to have the best education.” Another said: “They provide a fun and safe environment for my kids to learn! They love going there and look forward to school every day.”

SILVER: FIRST STEP PRESCHOOL BRONZE: CALVARY PRESCHOOL

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

Want to learn about lizards and snakes? Fix a meal for a skunk? See where a wolf makes its den? Experience what it’s like to work with animals as a profession? All these activities and more are options through Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s summer camp program.

Programs often sell out, so don’t delay your registration.

SILVER: YMCA BRONZE: (TIE) CAMP WHISKERS & WAGS AT HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION AND EAGLE LAKE, THE NAVIGATORS 112 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO

CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE FILE

FAMILY: READERS’ PICKS

LIBRARY 21C

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

TECHNICAL SCHOOL GOLD: PIMA MEDICAL INSTITUTE 3770 N. Citadel Drive, 800-477-7462, pmi.edu/Locations/Colorado/Colorado-Springs

Students appreciate getting a good education so close to home.

“Excellent programs, excellent faculty and outstanding placement services,” one voter said. Another heaped this praise: “Amazing school — fabulous dedication to the success of their students/graduates and to fulfilling the staffing needs of health care providers throughout the community. Top quality grads who are well-trained and ready to provide premium care upon graduation.”

Clean. Safe. Economical. routes more convenient

than you may think!

New buses with clean diesel technology.

Take a ride on the greener side.

SILVER: COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY BRONZE: THE INDEPENDENCE CENTER CNA SCHOOL

TEEN HANGOUT GOLD: LIBRARY Pikes Peak Library District, multiple locations, ppld.org

Whether they’re hanging out with friends, reading, sharing their writing and art, finishing homework and school projects or using a 3-D printer to build a model of their latest creation, teens love the library. One voter said: The “teen center is awesome, 21C has so many fun activities.” A parent said: “My daughter loves the East Library. Says, and I quote, ‘The most magical place in the world!’

Gotta love it!” Yet another voter summed it: “It’s full of possibility and it’s free. What could be better?”

Fares LOWER than $2! $0.85 for seniors, youth and disabled with discounted monthly rates.

SILVER: PAINT THE TOWN PARTY AND PAINT STUDIO BRONZE: TRAMPOLINE WORLD GYMNASTICS

TUTORING PROGRAM GOLD: LIVELY MINDS TUTORING 3584 Painted Daisy Court, 323-6350, livelymindstutoring.com

These tutors focus on improving skills and boosting confidence of students in kindergarten through college. One voter touted the “exceptional staff, reliable services, great success rate.” Another said: “Lively minds is an exceptional tutoring service for children and their families for a multitude of reasons, first being that (founder) Candace Heiken works diligently to understand the student’s needs and to match them with a tutor who has a solid understanding of the concepts and is an excellent teacher.”

Info | Rates | Routes Visit

mmtransit.com

SILVER: D20 HOME SCHOOL ACADEMY BRONZE: HIGH COUNTRY HOME EDUCATORS

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SHOPPING: EXPERT PICKS WILLY’S EMPORIUM

DENA ROSENBERRY Catalyst Creative STACIE SCOTT, THE GAZETTE

CHICKEN FEED AND SOAPMAKING SUPPLIES

WORLDLY GOODNESS SPECIALTY MARKETS Willy’s Emporium, 2403 W. Colorado Ave., 473-6659, willysemporium.com; Carniceria Leonela, 3736 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 637-2641, carnicerialeonelagrocerystore.com; Asian Pacific Market, 615 Wooten Road, Suite 160, 573-7500, asianpacificmarketco.com

Do you miss “feeling the bubbles” of Aero’s peppermint chocolate, yearn for fresh conchas or crave Mister Ho mild chili plantain chips with your sandwich? Stop by Willy’s and chat with Maria Uribe, who grew up in Brighton, Sussex. Somehow, Wine Gums, a jar of Duerr’s and a bag of crisps might just find their way into your basket. You’ll find treats and meats from Mexico and Central and South America at Carniceria Leonela — and a butcher who knows his way around meats. Look for fresh seafood and Asian spices and snacks at the Pacific Market. These aren’t the only specialty markets in town, but they’re among the best, especially when you’re missing a taste of home or from your travels.

BUCKLEY’S HOMESTEAD SUPPLY 1501 W. Colorado Ave., 358-8510, buckleyshomesteadsupply.com

Some days I want to ditch my smartphone and its instant links to Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Snapchat, Periscope and Pinterest. I yearn for a less technological time. I want to collect eggs from my backyard chickens and honey from my personal hive, set up preserves from my garden and at the end of a long day wash my tired body with soap crafted in my own kitchen. On those days, I revel in the goodness of Buckley’s, where people know about churning their own butter, making their own cheese and mixing their own sausage stuffing. This is the place for the urban farmer, novice or veteran, to chat over coffee about the pros and cons of rabbit feed, mushroom farms and fermentation. This is Old West meets New West. Slow down and soak it in.

FROM THE STORE WITH SO MUCH

Academic Excellence * Character Development *Free Public K-12 / Private School Results

BLOOMING IMAGINATION

CHARTER SCHOOLS

PLATTE FLORAL. YOUR HOMETOWN FLORIST AND SO MUCH MORE!

*Western Heritage Focus *Consistently Ranks in Top 8% of State *Free, All-day Kindergarten *US News & World Report 2015 Gold Award - Best Highs Schools in America

6 5525 Astrozon Blvd. (K-12) 1801 Howard Ave. (K-5)

PTEC- 2525 Canada Dr (6-14) JamesIrwin.org (719) 302-9105

2016 Weddings • Sympathy Designs • Plants • Tropicals Silk Arrangements • Dried Floral Arrangements Extensive Gift Line • Greeting Cards • Lawn Furniture A Colorado Landmark Since 1921

632-2607

Mon-Fri 8-6 • Sat 8-5 www.platteflorist.com

3 blocks west of Union Boulevard

1417 E. Platte Ave.

Greenhouse & Garden Shop

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GETTING FROM HERE TO THERE MACVAN MAP CO. 1045 Garden of the Gods Road, 633-5757, macvanmaps.com

Sure, Siri will tell you how to find the nearest gas station and Google maps might give you the best directions to the interstate, but neither will show you how Colorado’s byways and back roads connect to places of adventure. MacVan is your go-to place for travel and topographical maps, state atlases, trail guides and globes.

Need a surface map for the Canyon of Lodore? Check. Want a guide to the best ATV trails in Colorado’s central mountains? Check.

Looking for a relief map of the Rocky Mountains to hang on your wall? Check. Join the free MacVan Maps & Travel Club for 5 percent off your purchases.

DISCOUNT ADVENTURES SECOND-HAND GEAR SHOPS Mountain Equipment Recyclers, 1024 S. Tejon St., 210-6427, merecyclers.com, and Gearonimo Sports, 2727 Palmer Park Blvd., 465-2450, gearonimosports.com

These two shops will save you a bundle so you can take full advantage of all the recreational activities Colorado has to offer.

Whether you’re looking for a day pack, climbing shoes, a cycling jersey or a kayak, check out these two shops. Knowledgeable staff members will help you make the right choice — even if that’s going elsewhere for a specific piece of gear. A portion of the money you pay at MER goes to local nonprofits, to boot. The store has given more than $80,000 to local military groups and nonprofits since it opened in 2011. And you can recycle gear you no longer use at either shop (consignment, trade or cash).

GIGI’S THE ANIMAL LOVERS GIFT SHOP

STACIE SCOTT, THE GAZETTE

YEAR-ROUND MAGIC CHRISTMAS SHOPS The Holly Leaf, 2514 W. Colorado Ave., 635-8222; and Christmas in Manitou, 726 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-4290, christmasinmanitou.com

These two shops share the magic of Christmas no matter what day shows on your calendar. You’ll find traditional decorations and Nativities as well as village collectibles and tree ornaments to fit nearly any theme you can imagine — Old West, snowmen, German shepherds, Colorado or kayaking. It’s the place to go if you’re missing holiday cheer. And the clerks are as helpful as any of Santa’s elves.

COLORADO PROUD COLORADO SKI CHAIRS 419 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 303-775-7273, coloradoskichairs.com

I’ve seen these chairs around the West and marveled at the blend of recycled goods, pop-art designs and function. Adam Vernon and his crew craft chairs, benches, tables, bookcases, coat racks and more from old skis and snowboards. You can choose to leave the original colorful designs, pick a paint job that “screams Colorado” — the state flag, the Rocky Mountains — or select colors or artwork that match your home or business. I hope to chill in my own backyard Adirondack one day.

TREATS FOR YOUR FURRY BABY GIGI’S THE ANIMAL LOVERS GIFT SHOP 728 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-4772, gigisshop.com

This is my go-to store when I’m searching for a doggy sweater (sizes from Chihuahua to Great Dane), bedazzled leash, dog bed or cat tent. (Yes, Darth Grayder has her own pop-up tent. Don’t judge.) There’s no denying we are Pet City, USA. Pop into Gigi’s to buy something — a doormat, wind chime, throw pillow — that announces to the world the huge spot Fido holds in your heart.

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CAROL LAWRENCE, THE GAZETTE

THOMAS BEARD OF COLORADO SKI FURNITURE

SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

Voted BEST in The Gazette for 21 Years!

THANK YOU we appreciate you & your votes!

• BIG Selection - Small Prices • Huge Variety of Hard-to-Find Items • Download the Cheers App for Specials • Quantity Discounts for Large Parties • In-Store Tastings Fridays 4-6pm • Minutes from Anywhere · We Deliver • Locally owned & operated with 100s of locally produced items!

BABY COTTON BOTTOMS

Join the BREW CREW and Save $ on Craft Beer Sign up Today!

8000+ Wines 3500+ Spirits 1800+ Brews

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

ANTIQUES GOLD: AMERICAN CLASSICS MARKETPLACE 1815 N. Academy Blvd., 596-8585, americanclassicsmarketplace.com

With more than 300 independent dealers in one spot, this should be your first destination for an oldie but a goodie. Folks love the selection of items, fair prices and helpful staff. “Not just antiques, but new craft items as well. Everything fresh, doesn’t have that ‘used’ store smell,” one voter said. “Neat and clean, huge, has everything.

I’ve had a space there for four years and buy as much as I sell,” another said.

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

SILVER: WILLOWSTONE ANTIQUE MARKETPLACE BRONZE: TREASURE SHOPPE

BABY SHOP GOLD: BABY COTTON BOTTOMS 330 S. Nevada Ave., 328-0741, babycottonbottoms.com

Changing diapers isn’t at the top of anyone’s “favorite things to do” list. But this store’s got your baby’s bottom covered with soft, cozy, clean, environmentally responsible and cute cloth diapers.

“They have wonderful informative classes offered,” one voter said.

“They have certified car seat installers that will install your car seat and show you exactly how to correctly install so that your children are safe. They support every style of parenting and have a chat on Facebook where women come together and chat about everything from cloth diapers to postpartum depression,” another said.

SILVER: ONCE UPON A CHILD BRONZE: MOUNTAIN MOPPETS

BEER SELECTION GOLD: CHEERS LIQUOR MART 1105 N. Circle Drive, 574-2244, cheersliquormart.com

You crave it, they’ve got it — a beer for every brew lover. Plus, the prices are right. “Staff goes above and beyond to give you their perspective on beers. They have special ordered when possible,” a voter said.

SILVER: COALTRAIN WINE & SPIRITS BRONZE: BRISTOL BREWING CO.

TM

Come Shop the Difference.

Now open, Famous Wok, Maurices and rue21

Gordmans opening Fall 2016!

1710 Briargate Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80920 ChapelHillsMall.com B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS great customer service and their bikes are great,” one voter said.

“Honest owner,” another wrote.

SILVER: TED’S BICYCLES BRONZE: CRITERIUM BICYCLES

BOOKSTORE GOLD: POOR RICHARD’S BOOKS & GIFTS 320 N. Tejon St., 578-0012, poorrichardsdowntown.com

You can get lost for hours in the aisles here. If you need sustenance, head next door to Rico’s Cafe and Wine Bar or Poor Richard’s Restaurant and come back to see how many of your books the staff has decided to keep and resell. “(Richard) Skorman has a heart full of books,” one voter said. “Love to browse in Poor Richard’s,” another said. “Always end up coming home with a gem.”

SILVER: BARNES & NOBLE BRONZE: HOOKED ON BOOKS

OLD TOWN BIKE SHOP

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

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

BIKE SHOP GOLD: OLD TOWN BIKE SHOP 426 S. Tejon St., 475-8589, oldtownbikeshop.com

Since 1976, these bicycle enthusiasts have repaired, sold and assembled the bikes you love. They also strive to keep you connected to the local biking community. “They are very friendly and have

The self-proclaimed specialists in wild game processing impress you year after year with fresh items. “As a customer for over 30 years, their meat and variety of meat cuts make them No. 1 in my book,” one voter said. “Always friendly and willing to cut the exact piece of meat I need.”

SILVER: RANCH FOODS DIRECT BRONZE: THE BUTCHER BLOCK

A Getaway That’s Not Far Away

THANK YOU, COLORADO SPRINGS, FOR HELPING MAKE EVERY MOMENT

Unforgettable!

2016

719.260.0100 | 5901 N. Nevada Avenue

LUISAGRAFFJEWELERS.COM

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VOTED BEST JEWELRY STORE

17 YEAR 2000-2016

711 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829 www.avenuehotelbandb.com

SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

Thank you to our loyal Hcustomers for O M E D E L I V E RY voting us Best Ofpowered 2016 www.liquorlimo.com by Colorado Springs HEUBERGER MOTORS

THE GAZETTE FILE

CAR DEALER FOR MILITARY DISCOUNTS GOLD: MCCLOSKEY MOTORS 6710 N. Academy Blvd., 594-9400, bigjoeauto.com

16 2013-20

Military folks head here when they need new wheels. They praise the selection, staff and prices. “They have a lot of ex-vets and always give a discount and more importantly take care of you after the sale,” one voter said. “A one-stop shop to buy, service and maintain the appearance of your vehicle inside and out, including paint,” another said.

SILVER: PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS BRONZE: NEVADA AUTO SALES

CAR DEALER NEW GOLD: HEUBERGER MOTORS 1080 Motor City Drive, 475-1920, heubergermotors.com

It’s got to mean something when you pull up to a light and cars from Heuberger Motors surround you. When you need a dependable, reasonably priced and good-looking car, you know where to go. Voters said the staff makes it easy to get exactly what you’re looking for.

SILVER: PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS BRONZE: LARRY H. MILLER TOYOTA

• NO CITY SALES TAX • WE DELIVER • DRIVE THRU 5847 Palmer Park Blvd. • 719.596.4700 www.powersliquormart.com OPEN MON-THURS 9AM-10PM FRI- SAT 9AM-11PM • SUN 10AM-8PM

CAR DEALER USED GOLD: MCCLOSKEY MOTORS 6710 N. Academy Blvd., 594-9400, bigjoeauto.com

There aren’t any lemons here, only good deals, honest people and a wide range of choices, voters said. “Great selection of inventory, friendly staff, amazing work from the appearance center and detail shop and excellent service department,” one voter said.

SILVER: CARMAX BRONZE: PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS

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SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS your peepers, and the selection of frames is a voter favorite, too.

“I appreciate the ongoing assistance the staff give you long after you’ve purchased your glasses,” one voter said. “They adjust, clean and give other help. Plus, they are friendly.”

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING GOLD: MOUNTAIN MOPPETS 2530B W. Colorado Ave., 633-5544, mountainmoppets.com

Moppet: a small, endearingly sweet child. Care for your own moppets here with a large selection of baby and children’s clothing, accessories and gifts. “The store’s new location is adorable,” one voter said. “I love the brands that they carry — so unique.”

SILVER: ONCE UPON A CHILD BRONZE: GYMBOREE

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

There’s no doubt about it — people love how little they spend for good clothing, accessories, shoes, you name it. “Between the sale prices and coupons, I spend very little,” one voter wrote. “Everything is ALWAYS on sale,” another said.

SILVER: DILLARD’S BRONZE: J.C. PENNEY

GOLD: ROCKRIMMON VISION SOURCE 6005 Delmonico Drive, Suite 140, 522-9393, visionsource-rockrimmonvision.com

The staff goes to great lengths to help you maintain the health of

s

for Voting us Best of the S prin g 2016

GOLD: PLATTE FLORAL 1417 E. Platte Ave., 632-2607, platteflorist.com

SILVER: SKYWAY CREATIONS FLOWER SHOP AND GREENERY BRONZE: RICH DESIGNS HOME

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

They’ve got you covered with traditional, contemporary and modern furniture for your living room, dining room, bedroom, office or patio. “How can you not love them — the quick delivery and prices,” one voter said. “Great people, no pressure, low prices,” another wrote.

EYEGLASSES

T

FLORIST Back-to-school flowers, “just because” flowers, hairpieces and hospital flower delivery — this shop that has been around for more than 70 years does it all and with a friendly attitude. “For over 40 years this has been our No. 1 pick for flowers,” one voter said.

DEPARTMENT STORE

k you n a h

SILVER: ABBA EYE CARE BRONZE: COSTCO WHOLESALE

SILVER: FURNITURE ROW BRONZE: WOODLEY’S FINE FURNITURE

Proud to be Colorado Springs’

Best Tax Service Services: • Tax Preparation • Payroll

119 N. Tejon St. - Downtown - 635-1575 Hours: Mon - Fri 9:30 to 6:00 • Sat. 9:30 to 5:00 • Closed Sundays.

“We create from concept to reality!”

• Small Business Accounting • New Business Formation • Non-Profit Organizations • QuickBooks Setup & Training

“The BEST in the business!

Always there for questions, or concerns. 20 years with Your TaxLady.”

— Wendy Potter Ferrazzano

By combining our expertise, experience and professional staff, each client receives close personal attention.

Thank you for voting us Best Of The Springs 2016 2110 Hollow Brook Drive Ste 104 Colorado Springs, CO 80918

(719) 930-8906 • www.belladesignsbybridget” 120 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

401 Windchime Place Colorado Springs, CO, 80919

(719)548-4924 www.TaxLadyllc.com

SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

2016

ACE HARDWARE

Antiques • Crafts • Collectibles • Furniture

Thank you for voting us Best Antique Store 8 years in a row!

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

HARDWARE STORE GOLD: ACE HARDWARE Multiple locations, acehardware.com

Ace is the place isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s the downright truth, according to voters. They have all the bells and whistles you need to fix up a home in a hurry, and the salespeople seem to genuinely enjoy working there. “Ace reminds me of the hardware store of my youth,” one voter said. “They have neat out-of-the-box items that you don’t always find in a hardware store,” another wrote. “This is my favorite hardware store even though they are small compared to others.”

SILVER: LOWE’S BRONZE: THE HOME DEPOT

HEALTH FOOD

Collectibles

GOLD: SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET 1730 Dublin Blvd., 590-8890, sprouts.com

You don’t have to be a health nut to appreciate fresh food, low prices and staff. Voters love double ad Wednesdays when two weeks of sale items converge for the lowest prices of the week. “Always great and willing to answer any question you may ask. Excellent variety of foods and meats as well as vitamins,” one voter said.

“Awesome place to get vegan foods and vegan-friendly snacks and groceries,” another wrote.

SILVER: TRADER JOE’S BRONZE: WHOLE FOODS MARKET

HOBBY SHOP GOLD: HOBBY LOBBY 525 S. 8th St., 630-1977; 5994 Barnes Road, 550-3799; 6950 N. Academy Blvd., 260-6920; hobbylobby.com

thousands

Open Daily 10am-6pm

Crafters know just the spot for cheap supplies, knowledgeable staff and huge selection. “Sales and coupons make crafting affordable,” one voter said.

SILVER: SIMPLE PLEASURES BRONZE: MICHAELS

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HOMEBREW/WINE MAKING

JEWELER

GOLD: WINE CRAFTERS 625 Paonia St., 528-1651

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

Who needs to buy a $15 bottle of wine or $12 six-pack of beer when you can make it yourself? Head here for the best, well-priced supplies, voters said.

SILVER: OLD WEST BRONZE: FERMENTATIONS

Making a jewelry purchase can be one of life’s biggest decisions, particularly if it goes with an important question. To ensure an ecstatic recipient, head here for designer jewelry and bridal collections. “Outstanding selection and very good customer service,” one voter said.

SILVER: REVOLUTION JEWELRY WORKS BRONZE: JARED THE GALLERIA OF JEWELRY

Furniture Designed For Your Lifestyle.

Featuring

Bassett • Thomasville • Stressless Flexsteel • Berhardt Natuzzi Editions Leather • Kincaid Drexel Heritage • Rowe

A History of Integrity & Service Since 1921 3212 E. Platte Avenue • 632.6621 www.americanfurniture.com 122 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

RUTLEDGE’S

WHERE FASHION TAKES YOU

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

KITCHEN STORE GOLD: BED BATH & BEYOND 2180 Southgate Road, 471-3214; 1790 E. Woodmen Road, 265-5795; 5944 Barnes Road, 573-1118; bedbathandbeyond.com

Folks love to wander the aisles and imagine how cozy their homes will be with all the new gadgets, bedding, candles, decor and storage units. “Their inventory is so fun,” one voter said. “Reasonable prices and coupons,” another wrote.

SILVER: SPARROW HAWK GOURMET COOKWARE BRONZE: WILLIAMS-SONOMA

LIQUOR STORE GOLD: CHEERS LIQUOR MART 1105 N. Circle Drive, 574-2244, cheersliquormart.com

There are reasons this place has been around for more than two decades: “Good customer service, good selection, good prices. So easy to shop there,” one voter said.

SILVER: COALTRAIN WINE & SPIRITS BRONZE: POWERS LIQUOR MART

MATTRESS STORE GOLD: DENVER MATTRESS CO. 6320 Corporate Centre Circle, Suite DM, 266-8383, denvermattress.com

Sleep is one of the best things you do for good health; the right mattress matters. Staff here will do a strength test to make sure you’re sleeping on the right type of mattress and pillows. “Salespeople know their beds and pillows. Best prices, warranty and comfort guarantee,” one voter said.

SILVER: BOB’S DISCOUNT MATTRESSES BRONZE: AMERICAN FURNITURE WAREHOUSE

THANKYOU

FOR VOTING US BEST SHOPPING CENTER COMING SOON Pie Five Pizza Co. | Charming Charlie | Paper Source JOINING Anthropologie | Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar lululemon athletica | J.Crew | Modern Market Sephora | Apple | Athleta & many more

MEN’S FASHION GOLD: RUTLEDGE’S 102 N. Tejon St., 632-7654, rutledges.com

Men can find top names in fashion here, including Oxxford Clothes, Brioni, Coppley, Lucchese, Robert Graham, Robert Talbott and Remy Leather. “Expensive but good,” one voter said. “A favorite for years,” another said.

SILVER: MEN’S WEARHOUSE BRONZE: JOS. A. BANK

OVER 50 FABULOUS SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS 1885 BRIARGATE PARKWAY I-25 EXIT 151 ThePromenadeShopsAtBriargate.com B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

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

When the owner of a meat market is considered one of the go-to experts in the country, you know the products must be good. Mike Callicrate has served as an adviser for the film “Food, Inc.” and several best-selling books including “Fast Food Nation.” “Best meat in town,” one voter said. “As wholesome as you can get,” another said.

SILVER: SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET BRONZE: WHOLE FOODS MARKET

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

NEW STORE

LUIS GUERRA OF RANCH FOODS DIRECT

GOLD: ANTHROPOLOGIE 1925 Briargate Parkway, Suite 603, 266-0357, anthropologie.com

staff members who know what they’re talking about, caring vets and pet boarding. “Love the products — very fine quality you can’t find anywhere else,” one voter said.

SILVER: SUNTRONICS AV BRONZE: WILDERNESS TREASURES

PHOTO EQUIPMENT

PET STORE

GOLD: MIKE’S CAMERA 1850 N. Academy Blvd., 597-1575, mikescamera.com

Fashionistas smoothed their couture when this hip store opened at the Promenade Shops at Briargate. They flock here for gorgeous dresses, trendy accessories and the best in gifts and home decor.

GOLD: PETSMART Multiple locations, petsmart.com

Your furry babies are like kids, so it makes sense you want to do your best by them. This chain offers excellent customer service,

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SILVER: PETCO ANIMAL SUPPLIES BRONZE: WAG N’ WASH

Voters love the complete selection of still and video cameras and accessories and the full line of photo-processing services. “The staff was great,” one voter said.

SILVER: CAMERAWORKS BRONZE: GODEC’S PHOTO SUPPLY

FURNITURE YOUR LIFESTYLE TO FIT

Proud to be Best of the Springs 5 Years in a row! $

Sofa

426

Sofa with Accent Pillows and Nailheads $426 (RR-130S)

Loveseat $396 • Accent Chair $258 • Showood Chair $270 • Queen Sleeper $526

CompleBte d Queen e

$

599

Queen Storage Bed $599 (B697-QBED) (Mattress and comforter set not included) Includes Headboard Footboard and Rails

King Bed $699 • Dresser $449 • Mirror $129 • Chest $399 • Nightstand $199

www.AFWonline.com

LIFESTYLE FURNITURE Your LIFESTYLE FURNITURE Store

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SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS PHELAN GARDENS

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

PLACE TO BUY A GUN GOLD: SPECIALTY SPORTS & SUPPLY 4285 E. Fountain Blvd., 391-2556, specialtysportsandsupply.com

Rehab with the Extraordinary

TfohravnoTkinygouus

ings! r p s e h T BesT of Multiple locations across Colorado Springs

falconpt.com • 719-495-3133

Rifles, shotguns, pistols — this store has an enormous selection that voters appreciate.

SILVER: SPORTSMAN’S WAREHOUSE BRONZE: BASS PRO SHOPS

PLACE TO BUY AMMO GOLD: BASS PRO SHOPS 13012 Bass Pro Drive, 488-7300, basspro.com

Ammunition can make or break your gun. This shop offers a full selection of centerfire, handgun, rimfire and shotshell ammo.

SILVER: SPECIALTY SPORTS & SUPPLY BRONZE: MAGNUM SHOOTING CENTER

PLANT NURSERY GOLD: PHELAN GARDENS 4955 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 574-8058, phelangardens.com

As 2015 Gold winner for the Best of the Springs, we are honored to be a finalist in this years Best of the Springs!

Bijou Animal Hospital 123 Swope Ave Colorado Springs, Co 80909 719-471-4457

719-550-9464

RESALE/CONSIGNMENT SHOP GOLD: BETWEEN FRIENDS 6608 Delmonico Drive, 528-6616, bf-consignment.com

SILVER: BABY COTTON BOTTOMS BRONZE: (TIE) ENCORE CONSIGNMENT, CLOTHES MENTOR

At Broyhill we provide customers with fine quality furniture at fair prices!

We have a large selection of home furnishings in a variety of styles.

Our friendly knowledgeable staff will help you find your own unique look, and make your home beautiful, comfortable and functional.

BUY BETTER. BUY BROYHILL.

SHOE STORE GOLD: DSW 7639 N. Academy Blvd., 264-8007, dsw.com

With rows and rows of shoes in myriad styles, there’s surely something you’ll covet. “Best selection,” one voter said.

CORNER OF AIRPORT & ACADEMY

345 S. Academy Blvd

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SILVER: HARDING NURSERY BRONZE: RICK’S GARDEN CENTER

One person’s trash is another person’s treasure. “Great sales, nice salespeople,” one voter said. “Great little shop, good quality used clothing,” another said.

BROYHILL FURNITURE SHOWCASE

BROYHILL FURNITURE SHOWCASE

Green thumbs depend on this year-round greenhouse, nursery and garden center. The selection of bedding plants, hanging baskets, home decor, plants grown from seeds and rooted cuttings and a large variety of tomato and pepper starts entice you to return.

“They are nice, have a large selection, offer classes and know what they are talking about,” one voter said.

www.broyhillcos.com

SILVER: COLORADO RUNNING CO. BRONZE: BROWN’S SHOE FIT CO.

SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

SHOPPING CENTER

SPICE STORE

GOLD: THE PROMENADE SHOPS AT BRIARGATE 1885 Briargate Parkway, 265-6264, thepromenadeshopsatbriargate.com

GOLD: SAVORY SPICE SHOP 110 N. Tejon St., 633-8803, savoryspiceshop.com

Apple Store, Anthropologie, Lululemon Athletica, Sephora, Williams-Sonoma, Bird Dog BBQ, P.F. Chang’s — this outdoor center has all the stores and food options you love. “The Promenade has fine stores, close to me and great restaurants,” one voter said. “Nice atmosphere,” another said.

SILVER: UNIVERSITY VILLAGE COLORADO BRONZE: CHAPEL HILLS MALL

You can make a meal sparkle with the right spices. Chefs head here for the freshest and best selection, delicious recipes, cooking classes and savvy staff. “The owners and staff are the best, and every spice store should smell like the treasures they sell within,” one voter said.

“It’s the best. I know when my wife cooks with their spices,” another said.

SILVER: PENZEYS SPICES BRONZE: SPICE OF LIFE

Thanks to Your otes

2016

MorningStar is Top Dog in Assisted Living 2nd year in a row.

Watson, our House Dog

Ask us why: 260.5605

With our Bear Creek Memory Care: 694.1411

Thank you for voting us Best Of 2016 HD Lens Collection

The only EyeCare Professional to win in the Gazette & Independent 6 Years in a Row!!

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SHOPPING: READERS’ PICKS

SPORTING GOODS

VIDEO GAME STORE

GOLD: REI 1376 E. Woodmen Road, 260-1455, rei.com

GOLD: GAMESTOP Multiple locations, gamestop.com

The folks who founded REI were passionate that a life outdoors is a life well-lived. Your favorite has been around since 1938 catering to hikers, bikers, climbers, campers and anybody with a yen to play outside. “Everything you could ever want for outdoor adventure,” one voter said.

Gamers agree year after year, this is the place to satisfy all your Xbox 360, PS4, Xbox One and Wii U needs.

SILVER: ENTERTAINMART BRONZE: VIDJA GAMES

SILVER: BASS PRO SHOPS BRONZE: DICK’S SPORTING GOODS

WINE STORE

SUPERMARKET

GOLD: CHEERS LIQUOR MART 1105 N. Circle Drive, 574-2244, cheersliquormart.com

GOLD: KING SOOPERS Multiple locations, kingsoopers.com

You raved about the natural and organic options, fast checkout, friendly employees and quality and selection of produce. “I save a bunch shopping there with digital coupons, specials, free Friday deals and double coupons. The staff is wonderful also — there to help you or answer questions and open more checkout lines as needed,” one voter said.

SILVER: TRADER JOE’S BRONZE: COSTCO WHOLESALE

THRIFT STORE GOLD: ARC THRIFT STORE 780 S. Academy Blvd., 391-7717; 1830 W. Uintah St., 473-0502; 4402 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 522-1203; arcthrift.com

The nonprofit organization is hopping on Saturdays when most of the goodies are 50 percent off, and proceeds help benefit Coloradans with intellectual and developmental disabilities. “Great way to save money and get some name brands at a discount price. Plus you are helping the disabled,” one voter said.

Those who appreciate the living, breathing grape know to come here for the vast selection, affordable prices and expert staff members when choosing wine. “I drive from Pueblo just to buy wine here. Love this store. It has everything,” one voter said. “Beautiful selection that continually evolves,” another wrote.

SILVER: COALTRAIN WINE & SPIRITS BRONZE: THE WINE GALLERY

WOMEN’S FASHION GOLD: KOHL’S Multiple locations, kohls.com

Not only are the clothes cute, but they’re practically free, according to voters. “The bargains are so great, they practically pay you to take the clothes home,” one said. “Sale prices and coupons make it very cost efficient,” another wrote.

SILVER: EVE’S REVOLUTION BRONZE: TERRA VERDE

SILVER: GOODWILL INDUSTRIES INTERNATIONAL BRONZE: ST. PAWS

TOY STORE GOLD: LITTLE RICHARD’S TOYSTORE 320 N. Tejon St., 578-5549, poorrichardsdowntown.com

Need a quick gift for a cool kid? The options here are endless and varied. “Unique and fun items. Love the atmosphere,” one voter said. “Awesome selection through a range of prices. Plus, easy to go next door and enjoy a glass of wine afterward. Nearly all my Christmas shopping will be done here,” another wrote.

SILVER: TOY STATION AT SCHOOL CROSSING BRONZE: TOYS R US

USED MEDIA GOLD: INDEPENDENT RECORDS & VIDEO Multiple locations, beindependent.com

You need music, DVDs, books? This local chain of stores has it.

And when you don’t need them anymore, you can bring back your CDs, DVDs, vinyl LPs, 45 singles and books to any location and earn cash or store credit.

SILVER: ENTERTAINMART BRONZE: ROSS AUCTION

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LITTLE RICHARD’S TOYSTORE

CHRISTIAN MURDOCK, THE GAZETTE FILE

THANKS COLORADO SPRINGS! DENVER MATTRESS is honored to be voted Best of the Springs!

Denver Mattress and the stores at Furniture Row strive to give their customers a unique shopping experience.

QUALITY Products you can trust and our customers love SERVICE Nationally recognized for years as one of the very best SELECTION The best selection of the best brands VALUE Our 365-Night Guarantee plus prices that can’t be beat Why shop anywhere else?

Denver Mattress also carries the best selection of the best mattress brands including Tempur-Pedic, Serta, iComfort, Beautyrest, Stearns & Foster, Sealy, Green Choice and Doctor’s Choice.

AMERICA’S LARGEST FACTORY DIRECT MATTRESS RETAILER

CO. SPRINGS NEW LOCATION 4331 Integrity Center Point Road (NW Corner of Powers & Barnes) (719) 380-7541

CO. SPRINGS 6310 Corporate Center Circle (West of I-25 & South of Woodmen) (719) 266-8383 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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SPORTS & RECREATION

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SPORTS & RECREATION: READERS’ PICKS

ANIMAL AT A STORE GOLD: LOU AND LOLA AT YOGA STUDIO SATYA 1581 York Road, 203-4525, yogastudiosatya.com

The Pikes Peak region is paradise for pet lovers, and these two pups elevate the sense of well-being for all yogis who enter this studio. These two “lovable” and “sweet” dogs “have great character and make the studio a great place to be,” voters said.

SILVER: LOWE’S HOME IMPROVEMENT BRONZE: ABBY AT SPENCER’S PRODUCE, LAWN & GARDEN CENTERS

BEST TRAIL GOLD: MANITOU INCLINE 400 block of Ruxton Avenue, Manitou Springs, inclinefriends.com

This trail along an abandoned railway line rises more than 2,000 feet in less than 1 mile. It’s a lung- and leg-burner that attracts hikers from around the world and is “a great experience and healthy activity for our community,” one avid user said.

SILVER: RED ROCK CANYON OPEN SPACE BRONZE: NONE

MANITOU INCLINE

THE GAZETTE

BEST TRAIL FOR BEGINNERS GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

There are miles of fairly smooth and clearly marked trails that rise fewer than 250 feet here. They wind around sandstone formations and through meadows and pine forest. Voters enjoy the “easy access” and “fantastic views.”

SILVER: NEW SANTA FE REGIONAL TRAIL BRONZE: RED ROCK CANYON OPEN SPACE

2016

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SPORTS & RECREATION: EXPERT PICKS body and mind — not to mention your belief in gravity — and ends with a craft brew in the company of friends. We’re fortunate that we can climb at CityRock and kick back at The Ute and Yeti.

Climbers of all ages and abilities are welcome at CityRock, where the goal is to be better today than we were the day before. There are classes to improve your technique, flexibility and skills (acrobatic yoga, anyone?) as well as safety demonstrations, national competitions and even ice climbing instruction.

Steps away from the climbing walls, The Ute and Yeti offers craft beers, wine, soups, sandwiches and other treats. Enjoy the plush couches, cozy fireplace and banter of fellow outdoors lovers. A portion of proceeds goes to UpaDowna, a local nonprofit that strives to get people outdoors.

HIKE OR BIKE A GREAT LOCAL TRAIL PIKES PEAK GREENWAY

MARK REIS, THE GAZETTE

CONNECT PAST AND PRESENT PIKES PEAK GREENWAY Multiple access points, coloradosprings.gov/greenway

Often overlooked, the 14-mile, mixed-use Pikes Peak Greenway is the backbone connecting our city center to neighborhoods north and south. Hop on near El Pomar Youth Sports Park and you can run or ride to Palmer Lake (via New Santa Fe Regional Trail). Connecting trails will take you east and west across the city.

Enjoy breathtaking views of Pikes Peak as you ride to shops, brew pubs and eateries in Ivywild, downtown and University Village, or to picnic at America the Beautiful Park. Check out Banker’s Lunch Loop, an adjoinSEAN HOLVECK ing mile-long singletrack trail.

Catalyst Creative Soon the Legacy Loop project will connect the Greenway with the Shooks Run Trail, creating a loop around the city center and fulfilling a more than century-old vision of city founder Gen. William Jackson Palmer. Plans include a 10K trail with no street disruption and waterway improvements that will create areas for tubing and stand-up paddleboarding.

Learn more at greenwayfund.org/legacy-loop.html.

ESCAPE AND PLAY RED ROCK CANYON OPEN SPACE Ridge Road at U.S. 24, redrockcanyonopenspace.org

Dozens of towering sandstone formations and winding trails entice you to escape to this nearly 790-acre playground west of downtown. Hours of fun await hikers, mountain bikers, runners, rock climbers and equestrians.

Beautiful red sandstone walls offer more than 80 sport routes across 13 distinct cliffs. It’s a climber’s paradise. Climbing legend Stewart Green and Brian Shelton of Front Range Climbing Co. have written the guidebook and established most, if not all, of the sport routes. Miles of trails wind through canyons and into the hills.

The rock formations and old quarry are especially interesting for history and geology buffs. Dogs can run off-leash in the Upper Dog Loop. A free ride park offers fun for BMXers and mountain bikers.

The noise of the city disappears within a few minutes on the trail.

GATHER WITH OUTDOORS LOVERS CITYROCK CLIMBING CENTER, THE UTE AND YETI 21 N. Nevada Ave., 634-9099, climbcityrock.com, theuteandyeti.com

Nothing is more rewarding than a workout that challenges your

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SECTION 16 Trailhead off Gold Camp Road

Some will say the Manitou Incline holds this crown, but highseason crowds send many avid hikers and runners elsewhere. This trail provides solitude, beauty and a challenging workout.

Hikers and runners: Challenge yourselves by charging up the trail counter-clockwise. Accomplished runners can keep stride up the steep incline, but not without a struggle. It’s great training for the Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon. Mountain bikers: Follow the trail clockwise, giving way to hikers and runners.

Take time to enjoy stunning views of Red Rock Canyon Open Space, Garden of the Gods and the dense greenery and rocky outcroppings of the Pike National Forest. Year round, this is a quick respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

LOSE YOURSELF ON A SUNNY AFTERNOON PALMER PARK Maizeland Road at Academy Boulevard or Paseo Road at North Chelton Road, springsgov.com/units/parksrec/maps/mpalmer-s.htm

It’s a common refrain in Palmer Park: “How did I get all the way over here?” Located in the middle of Colorado Springs, this is a great place to hike, run, bike, enjoy a sunrise or sunset, or kick back and stargaze. It’s chock full of trails that can challenge hardcore mountain bikers as well as those who rock a vintage Huffy.

And the hoodoos are intriguing. But most of all, the maze of social trails make this park the best place to add unintended miles to your day as one interesting turn leads to many others, each more delightful than the last.

The park isn’t really large enough to get lost in — and it’s surrounded by city — but if you’re not paying attention a “short” hike could last a few hours.

BEGIN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT RECYCLERS 1024 S. Tejon St., 210-6427, merecyclers.com

Starting a new sport can be expensive; inevitably, you need specialized gear. But there’s no need to drop a wad of cash on what might be a passing fancy. When I have friends who want to try climbing, cycling, backpacking, snowboarding or some other outdoor fun, I take them to Mountain Equipment Recyclers.

MER stocks gently used and new gear at discount prices, and staff members are knowledgeable and friendly. They’ll point you to the best gear for your needs — even if you have to buy it elsewhere — and they’ll share beta on trails, climbing areas and camping spots. A portion of proceeds goes to local nonprofits such as The Home Front Cares and Trails and Open Space Coalition. I like that my purchases help the store’s nonprofit partners.

We could all do well to emulate owner Mike Mazzola, who supports the great outdoors and gives tirelessly to the community.

SPORTS & RECREATION: READERS’ PICKS

CITY PARK GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

Miles of trails for hiking, running, mountain biking and riding horseback attract users again and again. The winding road through the park also challenges runners and road cyclists. And the scenery stops you in your tracks no matter how many times you visit. “Still the best in the world for a free, beautiful city-owned park,” one voter said. “Great views and great trails,” another said.

SILVER: PALMER PARK BRONZE: FOX RUN REGIONAL PARK

CLIMBING WALL GARDEN OF THE GODS

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

BOWLING ALLEY GOLD: BRUNSWICK ZONE 999 N. Circle Drive, 596-5257, bowlbrunswick.com

Bowlers young and old enjoy 32 lanes with state-of-the-art scoring as well as billiard tables and arcade games. There’s a snack bar to keep you fueled for fun and party rooms if you want to celebrate a special occasion with friends and family. Voters enjoy the overall atmosphere and activities to keep everyone busy and smiling.

SILVER: BASS PRO SHOPS BRONZE: HARMONY BOWL

GOLD: CITYROCK CLIMBING CENTER 21 N. Nevada Ave., 634-9099, climbcityrock.com

This full-service climbing gym is a favorite of newbies and veterans. There are classes, parties, informational events, competitions and a great spot to hang out with friends. Voters praised the staff, “great customer service,” “new routes every few weeks” and an environment that promotes learning and improving one’s skills.

SILVER: SPORT CLIMBING CENTER BRONZE: LIFE TIME FITNESS

JERILEE BENNETT, THE GAZETTE

CITYROCK CLIMBING CENTER

Matéos Day Spa

800+ carefully selected, unique, and hard to find wines from around the world.

80+ wines at 6 for $60 mix and match! We feature everything from casual table wine to collectible cellar bottles!

Wine Tastings Every Saturday, 2-7 pm & Wednesday, 3-6 pm!

Gift cards perfect for the wine, ale, and spirit lovers in your life!

Relaxing, therapeutic and age reducing services.

From head to toe and all under one roof!

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

ESCAPE FOR AN HOUR OR A DAY!

Day Spa packages starting at $105 • Gift certificates always available

2016

2016

5903 Delmonico Dr.

719-439-WINE

www.thewinegalleryco.com

www.mateosdayspa.com • 266-9295 5919 Delmonico Drive • Colorado Springs, CO 80919 Mon-Fri 9-8 Sat 9-6 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

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THE GAZETTE

PINE CREEK COACH TODD MILLER

COACH — HIGH SCHOOL GOLD: TODD MILLER, FOOTBALL, PINE CREEK HIGH SCHOOL 10750 Thunder Mountain Ave., 234-2600, https://asd20.org/Schools/pchs/Pages

Coach Miller is known as a stickler for details, and that attention to the nitty gritty has helped him lead his 4A Eagles to multiple state titles. “His desire is his secret,” former player Marcus Cross told Gazette sports columnist David Ramsey. “Just the fact that he wants to be great so much more than anybody else. He’s willing to do anything to be great.”

SILVER: BOB BELL, SWIMMING, CORONADO HIGH SCHOOL BRONZE: J’ON ST. CLAIR, BASKETBALL, RAMPART HIGH SCHOOL

COLORADO CAMPGROUND

COLORADO SPORTS MASCOT

GOLD: MUELLER STATE PARK 21045 Colorado 67, Divide, 687-2366, cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Mueller

GOLD: FALCON, AIR FORCE ACADEMY North Gate Boulevard at Interstate 25, 333-2025, www.usafa.af.mil

Miles of trails wind through more than 5,000 acres of spring-fed meadows, forested ridges and massive outcroppings of Pikes Peak granite. You can pitch a tent or pull up in an RV or camper. Dogs are not allowed on the trails but are welcome on a leash in the campgrounds. One voter visits for the “great camping spots, awesome trails and beautiful views.”

SILVER: ELEVEN MILE CANYON RECREATION AREA BRONZE: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

COLORADO SKI AREA GOLD: BRECKENRIDGE SKI RESORT 1599 County Road 3, Breckenridge, 800-789-7669, breckenridge.com

There is terrain to satisfy every level of skier and snowboarder at this popular ski area that sees about 300 inches of fresh powder a season. Just as popular is the town itself, which retains a bit of its goldrush ambiance.

SILVER: MONARCH MOUNTAIN BRONZE: COPPER MOUNTAIN

E choe s of th e Pa st, Voic e s of th e Fu t u re The Colorado Springs Chorale

Crowds are amazed by the Air Force Academy’s gyrfalcon, the only performing mascot in the National Collegiate Athletic Association. The falcon can reach 200 mph in a dive from high in the sky. “Nothing else is even close to ‘The Bird,’ ” a voter said.

SILVER: SOX THE FOX, COLORADO SPRINGS SKY SOX BRONZE: (TIE) RALPHIE, UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO AT BOULDER MILES, DENVER BRONCOS

EXERCISE CLASSES GOLD: YMCA Multiple locations, 473-9622, ppymca.org

Programs and services are offered throughout the day and night across the region for all ages and athletic abilities. “The Y offers a wide variety of classes and great teachers in a family friendly environment,” a voter said. Another enthused: “Everyone is so friendly and warm.”

SILVER: VILLASPORT ATHLETIC CLUB AND SPA BRONZE: CAMBIO YOGA

The Best... just got Better!

Deborah Jenkins Teske, conductor

Celebrating 60 Years in Our 2016-2017 Season

2016-2017 Performances in October, December, February and May

Craft Beer Cave

Limited and special releases Over 1200 Craft Beers

Auditions in August 2016 Call (719) 634-3737 www.cschorale.org The Premier Professional Chorus of Southern Colorado 134 B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 0 1 6

Wine Room

Temperature controlled Rare & collectible selections

Tasting Room 330 W. Uintah @ I-25

coaltrainwine.com 719-475-9700 35 Proud Years of Local Service 2016

SPORTS & RECREATION: READERS’ PICKS

GOLF COURSE

HEALTH CLUB

GOLD: PATTY JEWETT MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE 900 E. Espanola St., 385-6935, pattyjewettgolfshop.com

GOLD: YMCA Multiple locations, 473-9622, ppymca.org

This city-owned jewel in central Colorado Springs is a perennial favorite. And you “can’t beat the 19th hole,” a voter said. Nor the views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range framed by trees along the fairways.

SILVER: THE BROADMOOR EAST COURSE BRONZE: KISSING CAMELS GOLF COURSE

GYM GOLD: YMCA Multiple locations, 473-9622, ppymca.org

The local YMCA’s facilities offer an array of group classes, pools and aquatics training, weight-training machines and equipment, running tracks and gymnasiums. “It is more than a gym,” one voter said, “it is our community working together for each other’s good.” “It’s affordable and family-oriented,” another said.

SILVER: VILLASPORT ATHLETIC CLUB AND SPA BRONZE: LIFE TIME FITNESS

In addition to weights, basketball courts and lap pools, the YMCA offers classes focused on healthy living, voters said. It’s a great value for your money, many voters noted.

SILVER: VILLASPORT ATHLETIC CLUB AND SPA BRONZE: LIFE TIME FITNESS

HIKE WITH LITTLE ONES GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

Trails wind up and down hills, underneath pine trees and around sandstone rock formations, sure to keep young ones busy and engaged. There are formal picnic areas and informal rock outcroppings that invite families to stop for snacks.

SILVER: BEAR CREEK NATURE CENTER TRAIL BRONZE: PALMER PARK

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

PATTY JEWETT MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE

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SPORTS & RECREATION: READERS’ PICKS U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER

ICE RINK GOLD: AIR FORCE ACADEMY CADET ICE ARENA 2169 Field House Drive, 333-0229, goairforcefalcons.com/icerink

Not just home to the Falcons, this rink is a magnet for the community. “Clean, organized and the staff are great. They also hold fun events that the whole family can attend.” “The rink is nice and so are all the coaches and staff,” a voter said. “My kids love it!”

SILVER: SERTICH ICE CENTER BRONZE: WORLD ARENA ICE HALL

JEFF KEARNEY, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

LUNCHTIME/AFTER WORK HIKE GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS 1805 N. 30th St., 634-6666, gardenofgods.com

Whether you simply wander along the first trail you see or you pick up a trail map at the visitor center and set out with a purpose, this park is sure to delight. The sandstone appears to change color with the setting sun, and the views of Pikes Peak can’t be beat. It’s convenient, beautiful and good for an hour or two in any season, voters said.

SILVER: NEW SANTA FE REGIONAL TRAIL BRONZE: PALMER PARK

MARTIAL ARTS GOLD: U.S. TAEKWONDO CENTER Multiple locations, 488-4321, martialartscoloradosprings.com

Martial arts programs are available for all ages at these studios,

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whether your focus is fitness, character development or self-defense.

“Great instructors, great facilities, a solid school that provides discipline and exercise in a family-friendly environment,” a voter said.

SILVER: TAI CHI ASSOCIATION OF COLORADO SPRINGS BRONZE: THE BLACK FALCON SCHOOL OF ARMS

MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL GOLD: CAP’N JACKS

The Pikes Peak region boasts untold miles of unforgettable singletrack, and this classic, fast-flowing route has long been celebrated as the area’s premier descent. It’s best for cyclists of at least intermediate skills. Short version: Take the Buckhorn Trail cutoff to the Forest Service Trail 667 saddle and follow it east to High Drive to pick up the descent on 665. Epic version: From Frostys Park take Jones Downhill (701) through Jones Park and onto Cap’n Jacks (667 and 665). One voter summed it: “Downhill!”

SILVER: PALMER PARK BRONZE: SECTION 16

SPORTS & RECREATION: READERS’ PICKS

PILATES GOLD: VILLASPORT ATHLETIC CLUB AND SPA 5904 Prairie Schooner Drive, 522-1221, villasport.com/cs

Instruction is important in Pilates and VillaSport knows that, voters said. “Great instructors, very intelligent,” a voter said. “Kevin and Mallory are superb instructors,” another said.

SILVER: CAMBIO YOGA BRONZE: YOGA STUDIO SATYA

PLACE TO SKATEBOARD GOLD: MEMORIAL PARK SKATEBOARD PARK 1315 E. Pikes Peak Ave., parks.coloradosprings.gov

Skaters come from across the region to drop into the bowls at CHRISTIAN MURDOCK, THE GAZETTE FILE this park and test their skills on the big ramp. There are features YOGA TEACHER AMANDA NEUFELD to thrill skaters of every skill level, a place to hang out and admire SILVER: HOT ASANA YOGA STUDIO others’ tricks and the majesty of Pikes Peak as a backdrop.

SILVER: GOSSAGE YOUTH SPORTS COMPLEX SKATEBOARD PARK BRONZE: THE FIELDS COMMUNITY PARK SKATEBOARD PARK, MANITOU SPRINGS

BRONZE: YOGA STUDIO SATYA

SKI SHOP

GOLD: AMANDA NEUFELD, YOGA STUDIO SATYA 1581 York Road, 203-4525, yogastudiosatya.com

YOGA TEACHER

A good yoga teacher corrects students’ posture, provides flow from pose to pose and keeps everyone engaged. “Amanda provides a unique yoga experience,” a voter said. “She teaches you a valuable Voters enjoy the gear selection, knowledgeable sales staff and mantra each week and truly cares about you.” “Amanda is warm the Junior Trade Program, which allows you to use gear that will and knowledgeable,” another voter said. “grow” with your children (you trade up sizes as your kids grow). SILVER: SARAH MARTIN, HOT ASANA YOGA STUDIO Each season, you can trade in your kid’s gear and get 50 percent of BRONZE: LISA TIFFANY, HOT ASANA YOGA STUDIO the purchase price to put toward the next season’s gear.

GOLD: COLORADO SKI & GOLF 2454 Montebello Square Drive, 268-9522, coloradoskiandgolf.com

SWIMMING POOL GOLD: VILLASPORT ATHLETIC CLUB AND SPA 5904 Prairie Schooner Drive, 522-1221, villasport.com/cs

This aquatic complex includes two indoor pools and two outdoor pools for lap swimming, water play, classes and competitions.

There are water slides, a lazy river, dump buckets and water guns.

“Best in town, bar none!” one voter said.

Pediatric Dentist 719.598.KIDS

SILVER: YMCA BRONZE: LIFE TIME FITNESS

URBAN TRAIL GOLD: NEW SANTA FE REGIONAL TRAIL

This multiuse trail stretches through town along Interstate 25.

Several neighborhoods have direct access to the trail, which attracts walkers, runners and mountain bikers. Voters said it’s a great trail for beginning riders to improve their mountain biking skills.

SILVER: MONUMENT VALLEY PARK BRONZE: UTE VALLEY PARK

YOGA GOLD: CAMBIO YOGA 3326 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 229-1188, cambioyoga.com

This studio is known for its donation-based classes and has grown a following for its friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable yogis. “I love Cambio,” a voter said. “They have a great variety of classes and their instructors are very good and welcoming.”

2015 2016 www.simplykidsdental.com

Thank You! Thank you for voting us Best of the Springs 2016! We're proud to serve the Colorado Springs community.

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2520 International Circle Colorado Springs, CO InnAtGardenPlaza.com B E S T O F T H E S P R I N G S 2 016

70474

SILVER: THE SKI SHOP BRONZE: CHRISTY SPORTS

137

BEST OF THE SPRINGS DIRECTORY ChineSe reStaurant

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Lawn Garden 2016

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2016

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BUY/SELL/TRADE ALL COLLECTIBLES Guns, Ammo, Military Relics, Coins, Gold and Silver.

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Traditional Thai Specialties & Vegetarian Tues-Thurs Fri - Sat 11 am - 2:30 pm 4 - 10 pm 11 am - 2:30 pm 4 - 10 pm Sun (719) 634-5025 12 noon - 9 pm

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PhotoGraPhy Thank You Voters!

Executive Portraits Event Photography

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

719-930-8126

BEST OF THE SPRINGS DIRECTORY

AppArel & Home Decor

restAurAnt

Bellissima Sympli the Best!

104 N. Tejon Street 632-5009

pAinting

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Fast Work. Great Results.

Some small jobs ok. Insured.

Serving Colorado Springs & surrounding areas for over 20 years.

719-237-0587

2016

Elevating the Craft of Beer

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PIKESPEAKBREWING.COM 1756 Lake Woodmoor Drive • Monument, CO 80132

2016

2016

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Agents: Call 719-685-8300