Holiday Guide

H OW TO C E LE B R ATE I N S O U TH E R N CO LO R A D O

Holiday Guide

GIFTS

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EVENTS

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T

2021

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION FROM THE GAZETTE Thursday, November 25, 2021

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Thank you for shopping local

Lampe Berger $10 Off Any Lamp

Bernina B335 $1749 Sewing Machine

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PU B LI S H E D BY TH E G A Z E T TE N OVE M B E R 25 , 202 1 3 0 E A S T P I K E S P E A K AV E N U E , S U I T E 1 0 0 C O LO R A D O S P R I N G S , C O LO R A D O 8 0 9 0 3

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER

CHRIS REEN

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER

RICH WILLIAMS

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

JIM BROYLES

DIRECTOR OF LOCAL MARKET DEVELOPMENT

TRACI CONRAD

DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING OPERATIONS AND MARKETING

KAREN HOGAN

COMMUNITY ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

TRENT LAGE

HOLIDAY GUIDE WRITER AND EDITOR

NINA K. GLASER GRAPHIC DESIGNER

GINA PIETRAMALE SALES

NIKKI DIRKS LINDA FAMULA KEN LEPIK TOM MCCLUNG JASON MCFARLANE VIRGIL QUINTANA DANIELLE ROGGE SUE WILLIAMS TO ADVERTISE

719.636.0390

Holiday Guide

GIFT GUIDE......................................................... 4 SHOP LOCAL GIFTS FOR HOMEBODIES........................................................6 SHOP LOCAL GIFTS FOR HER................................................................................6 SHOP LOCAL GIFTS FOR NATURE LOVERS................................................ 7 STOCKING STUFFERS................................................................................................... 9 TIPS FOR A SMART HOLIDAY SHOPPING GAME PLAN....................10 HOW TO HANDLE THE RETURN OF BLACK FRIDAY...........................11 SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWNS..........................................................11 JEWELRY: PRESENTS WITH A PRESENCE................................................. 12

INDULGE.............................................................14 COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS … AND YOUR CALORIES...........................15 HOLIDAY WINE GUIDE...............................................................................................16 FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD........................................................................................... 17

DECK THE HALLS......................................... 20 POINSETTIA: A CHRISTMAS CLASSIC............................................................22 OH, CHRISTMAS TREE ..............................................................................................24 COMPANY’S COMING: HOW TO BE HOSPITABLE.................................25 HOLIDAY CHECKLIST.................................................................................................. 26 AN INTERACTIVE EXERCISE: MATCH THE MOVIE QUOTE.............27

FESTIVITIES..................................................... 28 EVENTS CALENDAR.................................................................................................... 29

GIFT OF GIVING............................................ 32 EMPTY STOCKING FUND KEEPS THE LONG-TERM RECOVERY GOING FOR OUR COMMUNITY..............33

HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 3

Gift Guide

S H OW I N G YO U TH E WAY TO PUT A S M I LE O N TH E FAC E S O F YO U R FA M I LY, F R I E N D S , CO LLE AG U E S , N E I G H B O R S AN D CO M M U N IT Y

The giving of gifts has a long history in most cultures; it has been part of the social fabric of our lives since the beginning of human civilization. Gift-giving can build relationships, show love and devotion, help us communicate and improve the lives of others.

This publication is a guide to spreading joy during the holiday

4 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

season, whether you are looking for presents that are practical, personal or unpredictable. Get ready to engage your emotional, social and spiritual sides as you go through the pages! We wish you a Happy Hanukkah (November 28 – December 6), Merry Christmas (December 25), and Joyous Kwanzaa (December 26 – January 1).

Give the Gift of FOR THE FESTIVE

The Winter Spectacular Package When you want to stay close to home but light up your holiday in an exciting new way, The Broadmoor offers the perfect “staycation.” Enjoy the spirit of the season with special room packages that include your whole family in festive activities. You might just find your new holiday tradition!

FOR THE SHOW-GOER

FOR THE ADVENTURER

The Broadmoor Holiday Show

An Invigorating Wilderness Retreat

Get ready to dine, sing along and enjoy the holiday season at one of The Broadmoor’s Holiday Shows. With the Classic Broadmoor Holiday Package, you can make a night of it with your family or bring your team and make this evening your company holiday party! Either way, this show is not to be missed with headliner Sheena Easton. Show dates: December 17, 18, 19, 24, and 26, 2021.

Does anyone in your family love the outdoors or want to experience Colorado’s beauty? From fly fishing to relaxing in rustic luxury Broadmoor style, our Wilderness Experiences make a great gift.

Choose from one of our three luxury, allinclusive properties: Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing Camp, Cloud Camp or The Ranch at Emerald Valley, voted 2019 Most Luxurious Ranch by AAA Colorado.

FOR THE FORMAL PARTYER

The Broadmoor New Year’s Eve Gala

Want to close out 2021 in style? Then gift yourself an unforgettable night at The New Year’s Eve Gala.

Elegant and exquisite, it’s an evening of dancing and a tastefully designed menu. Ring in 2022 with champagne and a balloon drop while the band brings everyone to their feet.

FOR THE FREE SPIRIT

The Broadmoor New Year’s Eve Bash

Let your hair down at the more casual Bash, a festive New Year’s Eve celebration held in The Broadmoor’s International Center. Get your groove on with energetic dance music by a DJ, along with a cash bar throughout the event. Welcome in the New Year with a champagne toast at midnight.

Give the gift of choice this holiday! A Broadmoor Gift Card is the gift that keeps on giving. In addition to purchases at any of our fine retail

shops and galleries, The Broadmoor Gift Card can be used toward lodging, spa services and much more!

For additional information, visit broadmoor.com/give-the-gift w w w. b ro a d m o o r.c o m

|

844.209.6878

HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 5

gifts F O R

HOMEBODIES

CUSTOM FRAMING AND ART

Bella Art & Frame  “Best of the Springs” Winner for Custom Framing 183 Washington St., Monument  719.487.7691  www.bellaartandframe.com

With more than 20 years of experience, we create full custom framing for all types of art, memorabilia and 3D objects. Thousands of mat and molding samples allow us to design the perfect frame for your cherished items. We use all archival material to protect artwork, creating museum-quality frames. Come by Bella Art & Frame to see how we can help with your framing project and visit our fine art gallery housing original artworks by Colorado artists.

HOWARD MILLER ADELAIDE MANTEL CLOCK Tick Tock Shop 7 N. Circle Drive  719.475.8585  ticktockshoponline.com

gifts F O R

Enhance your shelf space with this ornate mantel clock with Westminster chime. It features a sculpted wrought-iron frame, antique warm-grey finish, Windsor cherry-finished base trimmed with decorative molding, and decorative cast crown atop a convex glass crystal protecting antique-finish serpentine hands and aged-look dial with black Roman numerals. The battery-operated clock measures 4x15.5x9 (L,W,H) and requires two A A batteries (not included).

A one-year warranty is offered on this model, #635130; MSRP $201; on sale instore for $127.95.

HER

PAMPER YOURSELF — AND A FRIEND Blo Blow Dry Bar Colorado Springs 12225 Voyager Parkway, Ste. 14  719.445.0705

Looking to get red-carpet- or runway-ready? A wash, blow dry, style and/or makeup from Blo Blow Dry Bar is the answer! You can give the gift of self-care this holiday season: Treat yourself and your mom, girlfriend or bestie; a special promotion makes it easy. Buy a $100 gift card and get an additional $25 FREE through December 24. You can purchase your Blo Gift Card in any denomination online at blomedry.com/blo-colorado-springs/ or on-site. Gift cards may be used for professional hair and make-up services.

UNIQUE JEWELRY BY SARAH GRAHAM

Squash Blossom 2531 W. Colorado Ave.  719.632.1899  www.squashblossom.com  staff@squashblossom.com Shop an exclusive collection from Colorado-based jewelry designer Sarah Graham at Squash Blossom.

Her statement-making jewelry is exciting and elegant, with a constant stream of new designs flowing from her studio every year. Each piece draws inspiration directly from the natural world, and the unique juxtaposition of 18 karat gold with matte-black oxidized cobalt chrome creates truly unique jewelry with a universal appeal. You can find new work from the artist in-store or online now; come see her limited collection during our Sarah Graham trunk show through November 28 and keep your eyes out for special pricing throughout the holiday season! Contact Squash Blossom for any questions or inquiries and come in-store Black Friday and Small Business Saturday for our best deals of the year!

“You’re Always a Friend First and Customer Second”

We’re Open

Wednesday – Friday 11am-5:30pm Saturday & Sunday 11am-4pm 24 East Rio Grande Colorado Springs, 80903 719-313-9187 alikelystorybookshop.com 6 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

Come browse our holiday selections in a cozy downtown setting.

gifts F O R

N AT U R E L O V E R S

ORCHIDS

Songbird & the Orchid 2204 W. Colorado Ave.  719.475.1700

Songbird & the Orchid’s family grown, Hawaiian-sourced orchids are the highest quality in town. This means your orchid is healthier, with an abundance of blooms, and it will flower year after year! Orchids are surprisingly easy to care for; it is the misinformation out there that gives them the reputation of being difficult. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff can answer all your questions, from care to watering and when, or if, your orchid needs to be repotted. Stop in and marvel at their gorgeous, colorful blossoms the next time you are in Old Colorado City. Mention this write-up and receive 10% off your purchase!

BIRDFEEDERS

Songbird & the Orchid 2204 W. Colorado Ave.  719.475.1700

Are you a nature lover? An animal lover? Why not combine the two and bring nature’s entertaining feathered friends directly into your backyard. Fly on into Songbird & the Orchid in Old Colorado City, where you can find quality, one-of-a-kind gifts, a new birdfeeder for yourself and your family, and specialized, house-made birdseed blends. Their customer comments tell it like it is: “The owner is super-friendly and passionate about conservation. He recommended the perfect birdseed blend for my backyard birds.” “Waste with Songbird’s seed was nonexistent, while other seed I buy elsewhere ends up all over the ground.” “Well worth seeking out this little gem of a store. Besides everything you need to feed wild birds at the best price in town, there is an excellent selection of gift items for bird, wildlife and nature lovers.”

Dollar Days

For every $600 you spend

Get $100 in Luisa Graff Holiday Dollars FREE!!

Register to win a beautiful Diamond Bracelet... Free!

Drawing on December 31 *See store for details.

Where Colorado Gets Engaged!

5901 N. Nevada Ave. | Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 260-0100 www.LuisaGraffJewelers.com HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 7

MEMBERSHIP Value plus fun. A Zoo membership can pay for itself in as few as two visits! It also includes other perks throughout the year, like discounts on Zoo camps, members-only events, free admission to our holiday lights extravaganza, Electric Safari (cmzoo.org/electric) and much more!

V.I.P. TOUR A world-class V.I.P. tour of the Zoo will give your loved ones memories for a lifetime as they go behind the scenes and meet amazing animals.

HONOR SOMEONE SPECIAL Create a lasting legacy at the Zoo with a personalized gift. Customized for the person being honored, our dedicated benches, tiles and more are placed at the Zoo and will delight for years to come.

ADOPT-AN-ANIMAL Give a hippo, penguin, giraffe or animal of your choice!

The Zoo’s Adopt-an-Animal program directly supports all of our animals.

ONLINE GIFT SHOP Shop your favorite animal plush, CMZoo logo apparel, gifts for animal lovers and more at our online gift shop.

8 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

Miniature Gifts with Maximum Appeal!

BY NINA K . GL ASER, THE GA ZETTE

Christmas stockings are a tradition that began in Europe. Traditionally, various small gifts were placed inside (the number of which depended on the size of the stocking), with most being small tokens of appreciation.

Over time, stocking stuffers have evolved, with contents ranging in cost from low-level to high-ticket items.

Gifts found in Christmas stockings are said to come from Santa Claus (if you have been good), and St. Nicholas has proven himself to have abundant shopping prowess! In trying to imagine his top picks for the 2021 Season, we’ve come up with this list (worth checking twice), with items suitable for adults, teens and children.

First and foremost, the items have to “check the boxes” for things that people want, need and will use and, in the case of non-perishables, be durable.

For your consideration: Bath bombs Bookmarks Bottle openers Business card cases Candy Cosmetics (lip gloss/lipstick, mascara, miniature makeup brushes, nail polish, perfume samples) Face masks Fruit (Oranges are a popular pick) Gift certificates (learning experience, retail store, restaurant, spa) Gloves Hair accessories Hats Jewelry Key rings Kitchen gadgets (tea infuser, coffee scoop) Memo pads Miniature candles Miniature fans Mirrored compacts Nuts Pencils, pens, magic markers Post-it Notes Reusable straws Scarves Small toys or games (playing cards, small-sale model cars, stickers, a yoyo) Socks Stamps Stationery Swiss Army knives Tea/Cocoa/Coffee Tech accessories (ear buds, cable organizer) Tickets to entertainment or sporting events Travel-sized toiletries (hand sanitizer, anyone?!)

Plan ahead for stocking stuffers, giving some thought to your budget for each person. When “out and about,” you will likely find perfect prospects at or near store check-out areas. Have fun picking out items and filling those stockings; you might even want to make your own, personalizing the designs for each person (which makes a lovely gift itself).

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Tips for a Smart

Holiday Shopping Game Plan STATEPOINT

Health and safety, shipping delays and a constrained budget — these are just some of the concerns that may be amplifying your shopping stress this holiday season.

A new consumer sentiment survey centered on the holiday season can help you know what to expect in the coming weeks so you can make a smart shopping game plan. The Sensormatic Solutions survey finds that more people plan to shop in-store this year over last and plan to get started earlier.

Indeed, while 63% of U.S. consumers are concerned about shopping instore, this is not stopping them from taking advantage of annual deal days or visiting enclosed malls. In fact, 50% of U.S. consumers still plan to shop instore during Black Friday weekend and 50% will start their holiday shopping before November, compared to 43% in winter 2020.

Despite many consumers indicating that they plan to hold fast to the traditional shopping experience, the survey also finds that a growing number of consumers are adopting newer shopping methods. This is in part because of the convenience these services offer. For example, 42% of those surveyed say they will use buy online, pick-up in store (BOPIS) services for their holiday shopping, a 9% increase from 2020, and 44% say they will use curbside pickup, a 12% increase from last year. Popularized during the pandemic to help people adhere to social distancing guidelines, these fulfillment options are great alternatives to brick-andmortar shopping.

“We expect more contactless checkouts and unified commerce services like BOPIS and curbside pickup this holiday season because health and safety are paramount,” says Kim Melvin, global leader of marketing, Sensormatic Solutions, which is helping retailers solve complex challenges related to consumer confidence, health and safety as part of Johnson Controls’ mission.

As you check all your items off your holiday shopping list, consider these tips: Avoid busy stores and crowds by starting your shopping early.

Take advantage of annual deal days without navigating in-store traffic or risking online shipping delays by using unified commerce services like BOPIS and curbside pickup.

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Forty-five percent of U.S. consumers said store occupancy limits preventing overcrowding would make them feel more confident shopping in-store this holiday season. If that describes you, take your business to stores adhering to occupancy limits and practicing other safety measures. The good news is that businesses have a lot of tools in their toolbox. New technologies are helping retailers understand expected shopper patterns so they can implement in-store strategies to better service their customers.

As we enter the second holiday season of the pandemic, smart strategies can help you get your shopping done safely and with ease.

How to Handle the Return of Black Friday METRO SERV ICES

Santa Claus is Coming to Towns

BY NINA K . GL ASER, THE GA ZETTE

The holiday season figures to feel more familiar in 2021 than it did a year ago, when a global pandemic forced people to change how they celebrated and shopped. Though the pandemic is not yet in the rear-view mirror, the rollout of a trio of effective vaccines should make it possible for millions of people to celebrate safely this holiday season.

A return to normalcy should be welcome news for local retailers, and Black Friday could start the beginning of a busy and lucrative holiday season. With a more normal holiday season on the horizon, shoppers may benefit from a refresher course on how to get the best Black Friday deals: Start early. Black Friday may not begin until the day after Thanksgiving, but savvy shoppers know that many retailers post or leak their sales well in advance of the big day. Various websites are devoted to helping consumers find the best Black Friday deals. Many such websites update their listings as retailers release more sales information.

Consumers can bookmark Black Friday websites and then periodically visit them to learn about the latest deals.

Comparison shop. Getting a head start on Black Friday shopping also affords shoppers a chance to comparison shop. PriceGrabber.com makes it easy to compare deals from a wide range of retailers on everything from appliances to furniture to pet supplies.

Confirm when stores open. Many retailers abandoned midnight store openings on Black Friday a year ago. Such decisions were made to protect public health and they may remain in place in 2021. Though it might be a family tradition to visit a retailer in the wee small hours of the Black Friday morning, the pandemic has changed the holiday shopping landscape. So, confirm when stores open and close before crawling out of bed in the dark this Black Friday.

Utilize curbside pickup to avoid crowds. Shoppers who are still nervous about COVID -19 do not have to sit Black Friday out for the second year in a row. Various retailers started offering curbside pickup during the pandemic and that option has proven so popular that it has stuck around even after vaccines became widely available. Shoppers with unvaccinated children at home or those who simply want to avoid crowds can safely land great deals by opting for curbside pickup this Black Friday.

William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” asked, “What’s in a name?” As you may know, Santa Claus is known by various names around the world … and is a beloved part of Christmas in all of them. Among the polyonymy: Brazil and Portugal = Papai Noel England = Father Christmas or Kris Kringle Finland = Joulupukki France = Pere Noel or Papa Noel Germany = Weihnachtsmann Hawaii = Kanakaloka Hungary = Mikulás Italy = Babbo Natale Netherlands = Kerstman Poland = Swie˛ty Mikołaj Russia = Ded Moroz Turkey = Noel Baba PLUS: The Japanese have Hoteiosho, a Buddhist monk who bears gifts for well-behaved children.

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COMPLETE EYEGLASSES

S C H E D U L E Y O U R E Y E E X A M T O D AY !

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HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 11

Presents with a Presence!

COURTES Y OF LUISA GR A FF JEW ELERS

uisa Graff Jewelers is Colorado Springs’ fastestgrowing family-owned jewelry store, thanks to their friendly, award-winning service and great value.

An extensive inventory with over 10,000 items of fine jewelry for you to choose from includes more than 1,000 gorgeous engagement rings and wedding bands in their exciting bridal area, and loose diamonds in all sizes, shapes and price points. (After all, they are “Where Colorado Gets Engaged!”).

You will also find natural gemstones and fashion jewelry to satisfy even the most exclusive tastes.

Are you looking for the perfect diamond gift to express your affection?

Look no further than Luisa Graff Jewelers,

HOLIDAYS DOWNTOWN DowntownColoradoSprings 12 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

Downtown_CS

Join us Downtown!

Holiday Pop-Up Shops NOW OPEN! Small Business Saturday, Nov. 27 Downtown Holiday Stroll, 5-8pm, Dec. 8

Downtown holiday directory at DowntownCS.com/holidays

Are you looking for the perfect diamond gift?

Color is hot, hot, hot this season! where you will find a large variety of fashion-forward, playful designs, classic staples and one-of-a-kind styles.

Capture a piece of Colorado with a beautiful mountain pendant featuring sparkling diamonds set in white gold. Show your love with a beautiful diamond heart pendant or the Luisa Graff signature Intrigue Cut Diamond love knot. You may also enjoy a tennis bracelet and/or diamond studs, the finishing touches for any occasion!

Color is hot, hot, hot this season!

Celebrate with the Beautiful Colors of the rainbow! Whether you have a favorite color or if you love them all, Luisa Graff Jewelers has something for you! Featured are a stunning multicolored natural Sapphire pendant and ring set, sure to look wonderful around her neck and on her finger.

The holidays are one of the most romantic times to get engaged. If you

are lucky enough to have found your soulmate, visit Luisa Graff Jewelers for the selection and prices that will make you both smile. All diamonds are ethically sourced and handpicked for their quality and sparkle. Styles range from simply elegant to sparkling glam and detailed vintage (and everything in-between). Find the right ring for your right person and start creating memories that the two of you will treasure forever!

Seven knowledgeable and highlyskilled in-house jewelers are ready to. custom design, create and repair your jewelry. You will be delighted by the services they provide.

Find your treasure at Luisa Graff Jewelers, 5901 North Nevada Ave. Call the store at 719-260-0100 for information or to schedule an appointment or browse LuisaGraffJewelers.com.

The holidays are one of the most romantic times to get engaged.

HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 13

Indulge

E NTE RTA I N YO U R S E N S E S … A N D S E N S E O F S T Y LE !

While you are making your lists and checking them twice, setting holiday budgets, deciding who to shop for, and planning menus and décor, be sure to practice a little self-care. This may mean different things to different people, but could include your definitions of nourishment, pampering or satisfaction.

14 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

Enjoy the pleasures of the season, from its inherent celebratory sights to the smells that trigger childhood memories, family touches that spell tradition, sounds of holiday music and tastes of special foods only eaten at this special time.

We invite you to drink in the spirit of the season and share a toast for the New Year!

Thank you for voting us

Count Your Blessings … and Your Calories!

Losing weight does not need to be one of your New Year’s resolutions when you eat smart during the holidays!

BY NINA K . GL ASER, THE GA ZETTE

Holiday cakes, cookies, candies, cocktails and charcuterie boards can spell disaster for diets, but you can come out ahead of the game, following a few simple guidelines: 1. Have a pre-party snack of complex carbohydrates/ protein/unsaturated fat.

2. “Case” the buffet table before making your plate; be sure to include whole grain, fruit and vegetable options, and limit desserts.

3. Choose food wisely; only let it pass your lips if it is something that you love!

4. Take a break between plates; talk to people, have a glass of water; wait out the “I’m hungry” feeling for the “I think I am full” sense of satisfaction.

5. Remember: water, tea and seltzer are calorie-free.

If you want to have an alcoholic beverage, drink in moderation … and space out each drink with a glass of water in-between.

6. Modify recipes with heart-healthy replacements, like herbs and spices instead of butter; baking, grilling or steaming instead of frying; replacing low-fat or skim milk for heavy cream; and substituting Greek yogurt for cream cheese, sour cream or mayonnaise.

7. Stay physically active! Make exercise a part of festivities, whether that means playing with the kids, taking a stroll after meals or walking/biking to an event, or favoring stairs over elevators and escalators.

8. Eat slowly and savor the flavors!

9. Cut yourself some slack, if needed.

10. Get back on track, keep your eye on the prize … and reap the rewards of seeing your strategy through.

Fuel d by Knowledg and Pas ion

Fueled by Knowledge and Passion

When you’re here you’ll feel the love!

Come and see us at one of our three locations.

Broadmoor University Village 2110 Southgate Rd. #201 5182 N Nevada Ave. Colorado Springs, Co 80906 Colorado Springs, Co 80918 719.578.8332 719.2665.5660 Academy 7443 N Academy Blvd.

Colorado Springs, Co 80920 719.2665.5660

HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 15

Holiday Wine Guide

How to pair wine with different cuts of meat METRO SERV ICES

Wine enthusiasts insist that nothing can make a meal more flavorful than a good wine. A great pairing of wine and food can make for a memorable meal.

It is easy for novice wine drinkers to become intimidated when tasked with pairing wines. That is especially the case when pairing wine with meat.

The wine experts at Wine Folly (winefolly.com) note that leaner cuts of meat tend to pair well with lighter wines. For fans of richer, fattier cuts of meat, high tannin wines can cut through the fat and make for a flavorful pairing. Consider these pairing suggestions for popular cuts of meat: Filet mignon: Merlot or Merlotbased red blend, a Touriga Nacional or a Mencia.

New York strip steak: Cabernet Sauvignon, reds like Blaufrankisch, an

Austrian red, and a blend of Grenache Syrah Mourvdre (GSM).

Rib-eye: A Sonoma or Napa Valley Zinfandel, or Amarone della Valpolicella or Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso that have a strong fruit flavor.

Sirloin: A range of reds, based on how cooks are seasoning the meat or which sauce they are using.

For example, a French Syrah pairs well with butter sauces. Also noted are a Spanish Tempranillo or Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.

The experts at Coaltrain Fine Wine, Craft Beer & Spirits have been a part of special dinners and celebrations for decades! Pay the pros a visit at 330 W. Unitah St. Their picks — low- and high-end — for meat meals include the following list.

2018 Benguela Cove Cabernet Sauvignon ($28.99 – Sale $24.99) 2017 Cade Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon ($112.99) 2016 Fornaledo Valpolicella Ripasso ($31.99) 2013 Monte Faustino Amarone ($74.99 – Sale $64.99) 2015 Easton Zinfandel, Amador County ($23.99 – Sale $21.99) 2018 Green & Red Chiles Canyon Zinfandel ($32.99) Graham Beck Brut Rose ($19.99) Vilmart & Co. Grand Reserve Brut ($73.99-Sale $68.99) 2017 Gassier Syrah ($13.99) 2018 Melville Syrah ($39.99) 2018 Chateau Dorleac ‘Revelations’ Bordeaux Rouge ($15.99) 2018 Hall Napa Valley Merlot ($41.99)

Find your Christmas trees, ornaments, garland, wreaths, holiday decor and more at Holiday Hours: November 26 – December 23 M-F 10:00 - 6:30 Sat 10:00 - 6:00 Sun 11:00 - 5:00

Closed 12/24 – 1/9 Reopening January 10

(719) 632-8491

1827 West Uintah St., Colorado Springs, CO

www.ricksgarden.com

16 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

Food, GLORIOUS Food!

is a traditional Venezuelan dish. Typically a Christmas food, it requires a very elaborate process and is normally made with family.

BY NINA K . GL ASER, THE GA ZETTE

Christmas feasts around the world have separate and distinct traditions. You and your family may already partake in some of them … or perhaps this round-up of the world’s wondrous meals will inspire you to try something new!

Christmas is a summer holiday in Australia, with Aussies eating ham and seafood, and sharing traditional Christmas pudding and mince pies.

In Costa Rica, homemade eggnog (rompope), roast pork (pierna de cerdo asada), tamales, and a rum and candied fruit Christmas cake (El Queque Navideno) grace tables.

At Christmas, Danish dinner tables may feature roasted pork, boiled potatoes and red cabbage and gravy. People save room for a dessert of rice pudding (ris a la mande).

An English Christmas always includes mince pie and Christmas pudding!

The French may be eating foie gras (duck or goose liver) and oysters, guinea fowl, roasted capon, turkey, or peasant stuffed with chestnuts. The piece de resistance? Buche de Noel, the French version of a Yule log.

In Germany, there is Christmas goose (Weihnachtsgans), Spaetzle, dumplings (Knodel) and red cabbage, with soft gingerbread cookies (lebkuchen) for dessert.

Greek Christmas dinners include chicken and rice soup (Avgo lemono), stuffed cabbage, pork, “Christ’s bread” (Christopsomo), and desserts like baklava and a cookie with cinnamon, cloves and orange dipped in a light syrup and sprinkled with nuts (melomakarona).

Reindeer and whale meats are on holiday dinner plates in Greenland.

In Italy, Christmas Eve dinner tables support the Feast of the Seven Fishes, which often includes salt cod (baccala), shellfish (frutti di mare), eel (capitone), squid (calamari), conch meat (scungilli) and clams (vongole).

Peruvians celebrate Christmas with tamales, roast sucking pig, applesauce, potato puree, rice and a sweet bread loaf made with raisins and candied fruit (paneton). Spiced hot chocolate is a popular beverage.

In the Philippines, diners will find roast sucking pig, Christmas ham, a rice dish inserted into bamboo (puto bumbong), a yellow noodle dish flavored with annatto seeds

(pancit Malabon), Filipino-style spaghetti with meat sauce and pandan-flavored gelatin mixed with coconut and cream (buko pandan).

Poles have a meat-free holiday, with a 12-course Christmas dinner (Wiglia) representing the 12 apostles.

Among the foods: mushroom soup, red borscht with tiny dumplings, carp and herring, pierogi (the national dish of Poland made since the 13th century!), braised sauerkraut, cabbage rolls, wheat berry pudding (kutia), gingerbread, poppyseed cake and dried fruit.

In Puerto Rico, roast suckling pig (lechon) and a coconut pudding (tembleque) top the list of Christmas foods, with a meaty pastry made with green banana or plantain leaves (pasteles) and a version of eggnog infused with coconut (coquito) rounding out the menu.

In Sweden, there is the Julbord (Christmas table) buffet of three courses, from pickled herring and cured salmon to bread, Christmas ham (Julskinka), liver pate, red beet salad and cheese, meatballs, sausages, pork ribs and cabbage.

Venezuelans eat a dish only made during holidays, called hallaca (similar to a tamale). Ingredients include chicken, pork, capers, olives, onions, pimentos and raisins, folded into corn dough and wrapped into a banana leaf.

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Deck the Halls A D O R N , E M B E LLI S H A N D E N HA N C E !

The song lyrics, “Deck the halls with boughs of holly / Fa la la la la la la la la / ‘Tis the season to be jolly / Fa la la la la la la la la,” are well known to a lot of people, but when it comes to holiday décor, more than the halls are being adorned!

Those who celebrate Christmas will likely be hanging ornaments on their Christmas trees and stockings by the fireplace with care (and let’s not forget the mistletoe!), while those celebrating Hanukkah will have a menorah at-the-ready to light.

20 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

The symbols of Kwanzaa — which include red, green and black candles (Mishumaa Saba); the candleholder (Kinara); unity cup (Kikombe Cha Umoja); and gifts (Zawadi), to name a few — will be on display in the homes of those celebrating family, community and culture.

What do all these celebrations have in common? Tablescapes, the art of creatively and intentionally arranging a tabletop, as feasting is part of Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa festivities.

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www.HardingNursery.com Monday-Saturday: 8am-4:30pm • Sunday: 9am-4pm HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 21

Poinsettia:

A Christmas Classic

BY NINA K . GL ASER, THE GA ZETTE

A perennial shrub native to Mexico and Central America, poinsettia is the number one potted plant sold in the U.S., with approximately 70 million of them sold in a six-week period. The scientific name for poinsettia is Euphorbia Pulcherrima, which translates to “very beautiful,” and the foliage, widely used for holiday floral displays has other “also known as” monikers, including Christmas Flower, Christmas Star, Flores de Noche Buena (Good Night Flowers), Lobster Flower, Mexican Flame Leaf and Winter Rose.

Poinsettia is named after Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, an amateur botanist who introduced the plant to the U.S. in 1825. The plant has its own holiday, December 12, the date of Dr. Poinsett’s death in 1851.

Mexican legend tells the story of the poinsettia featuring a poor, young girl named Pepita who had nothing to offer the baby Jesus on Christmas Eve. She arrived at church with a bouquet of weeds, picked along her walk.

When she placed them on the altar at the nativity scene, they transformed into the red and green poinsettia variety that is known and loved by so many.

Known predominantly in its red and green color combination, there are more than 100 varieties in cultivation, including shades of red, pink, white and yellow.

When shopping for your poinsettia, remember to look for: Plentiful dense, dark green foliage from top to bottom.

Tightly clustered buds surrounded by fully colored small leaves; the yellow flowers in the center of colored bracts (modified or specialized leaves that are different from foliage leaves) should be small and bright.

The absence of yellow or green-white or sagging leaves, and discolored, faded bracts (the leaves beneath the flower).

Lack of insects.

22 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

Poinsettia TLC

With proper care, your poinsettia can bloom four to six weeks! Give your poinsettia a minimum six hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily.

Protect your plant from indoor drafts (temperatures must be above 55 degrees Fahrenheit Keep the soil moist, but not wet. Add room-temperature water, as needed, letting it drain through the pot, and be sure to discard any water in the saucer.

After-holiday maintenance

Once flower bracts fall, you do not have to discard the plant (unless you really want to). You can keep it for another year by decreasing your watering (do not let it dry out completely!) and moving it to a cool, dark area until spring. Return the poinsettia to a sunny area around April, water it well and cut branches back. Repot the poinsettia in a container an inch or two larger in diameter during the summer months and move it outside with six to eight hours of direct sunlight. Stems can be pinched back in July and mid-August. Keep the poinsettia moist and fertilize it weekly. In September, take the plant back inside, giving it strong light from a south-facing window, keep it moist and continue its once-a-week fertilization. Come October, through Thanksgiving, your poinsettia will benefit from strong light during the day and complete darkness at night; maintain moisture, warmth and fertilization.

Did you know?

Poinsettias bloom from October to December.

The poinsettia is the national emblem of Madagascar.

Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey noted poinsettia as his favorite flower.

HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 23

Oh, Christmas Tree …

A Guide to Picking the Perfect Fresh Christmas Tree METRO SERV ICES

Come the holiday season, perhaps no tradition evokes the warm and fuzzy “feels” more than a family outing to pick a Christmas tree. Whether it is a trek to a live Christmas tree farm or a short drive to the nearest pre-cut tree lot, the process of selecting a tree that will serve as the crown jewel of the entire season is a great way to make lasting memories.

Selecting a tree is a yearly ritual and each person has his or her set of criteria for what makes the ideal Christmas tree. These tips can help families find the right tree:

Choose your species

Do some homework on the type of tree you want prior to buying. Balsam fir and fraser fir are popular Christmas tree varieties but there are many others, such as noble fir and Norway spruce.

Balsams are known for having the most fragrant smell, but frasers tend to keep their needles the longest. For those who prefer a douglas fir, keep in mind that they sometimes drop their needles prematurely due to foliar diseases like needle-cast fungus.

Space for ornaments

In addition to aroma and needle longevity, look for trees that have

Did you know … ?

Lights on a Christmas tree may seem like a relatively recent phenomenon, but people who cannot wait to deck the halls each December may be surprised to learn that this beloved tradition dates all the way back to the late 19th century.

Edward Johnson, a friend and colleague of Thomas Edison, introduced holiday light bulbs in 1882. Prior to that, candles were lit on trees and families 24 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

a desirable shape and allow for adequate space between branches, advises the home and garden resource The Spruce. Trees groomed to be lush and full will look beautiful unadorned, but once ornaments are added, full branches may cause those ornaments to hang low or even fall off. Trees with sparse branches allow for ornaments to hang straight.

Measure your space

Trees in the field or in a lot may look much smaller than they do when brought into the living room. Do not make the mistake of selecting a tree that is too large for your home. The agricultural firm Ragan & Masey says to measure the room from floor to ceiling and subtract the height of the tree stand and tree topper. It is equally important to measure the width of the area where the tree will stand and allow for ample space for foot traffic around the tree.

Perform a needle check Every tree will drop some needles, and most evergreens hold their foliage. Modest needle loss is not an indicator of a poor tree. However,

would briefly gaze at this awe-inspiring bit of holiday decor before the candles were quickly extinguished. Johnson is credited with being the first to suggest that light bulbs, which were invented by his friend Edison, be used to light trees in place of candles.

While many were impressed by Johnson’s eight-bulb display, it remained a novelty until the 1920s, when pre-

experts say if 50% of the needles are lost when you swipe your hand down three to five different branches around the tree, the tree likely is not a good choice. In addition, avoid a tree that has glaring defects in the trunk as it can impede water flow through the tree.

Heavier is better

A heavy pre-cut tree means it is full of water and has been cut more recently. A healthy, fresh tree is going to require an effort to lift. Older, dried out trees will not be heavy.

Upon arriving home, make a fresh cut off the tree trunk and get it in water as soon as possible — even if that is a bucket until the tree stand can be set up.

assembled lights became more accessible. Since then, tree lights have taken hold as a must-have piece of holiday decor in households across the globe.

Company’s Coming:

How to be Hospitable

BY NINA K . GL ASER, THE GA ZETTE

One of the niceties of the holidays is opening the doors of your home to friends and family. There are several things that you can do to make the welcome warm, helping houseguests settle into your home: Clean the guestroom, and have clean sheets, pillows and extra blankets at-the-ready.

A few magazines and/or books can provide some down-time entertainment.

Have food and drinks on-hand (find out your guests’ preferences ahead of time and keep an ample supply!).

Schedule some activities that you know they will enjoy.

Have fresh towels in the bathroom and provide guests with toiletries (soap/shower gel, shampoo/conditioner, moisturizing lotion).

Take a cue from hotels: decorate the room with fresh flowers and have bottled water and a candle on the nightstand.

Make room in the guest room closet and/ or dresser for clothing and shoes, and have a designated space for guest luggage.

HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 25

Holiday Checklist:

Place a checkmark next to each activity you complete!

HANUKKAH  Light the hanukkiah (a.k.a.

Hanukkah menorah), a candelabra specifically for the holiday that has room for nine candles: one for each night of the holiday plus the shammash (helper candle that lights the others).  Play with a dreidel (four-sided top). Each side bears the letter of the Hebrew alphabet — Nun, Gimel, Hey and Shin — forming an anacronym for the Hebrew Nes Gadol Hayah Sham, which means “a great miracle happened there,” in reference to the holiday’s origins.

Basic game rules: Have something to bet with — game pieces, matchtsticks, pennies or small food. Players ante up and take turns spinning. If the dreidel lands on Nun, do nothing; if it lands on Hey, take half the pot; Gimel means take all; and Shin requires you to add to the pot.

When one piece is left or the pot is empty, everyone contributes so the game can continue.  Make potato latkes and other fried foods  Eat Hanukkah Sufganiyot (jelly donuts)  Give/get/eat chocolate gelt (coins)  Sing holiday songs  Watch a holiday-themed movie  Say prayers  Exchange gifts

26 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

CHRISTMAS  Decorate Christmas tree  Baubles  Garland  Lights  Ornaments  Ribbon  Tinsel  Tree topper  Drink eggnog Easiest Eggnog Recipe* (Courtesy of allrecipes.com) Blend together 2 beaten eggs, 3 tablespoons sugar, 2 1/3 cups of low-fat milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a dash of nutmeg.

Serve chilled. * This recipe contains raw egg, the consumption of which is not recommended for pregnant women, young children, the elderly or infirm.  View a nativity scene  Look at Christmas lights  Listen to holiday music  Sing carols  Watch a holiday-themed movie or TV show  Leave milk and cookies for Santa  Kiss under the mistletoe

KWANZAA  Assemble a centerpiece with items that represent the seven symbols of the holiday, including: crops, a straw or cloth placemat, seven candles and candleholder, the unity cup to perform the libation ritual during The Karamu feast on the sixth day, and gifts to be given on the seventh day..  Reflect on the principle of the day:  Unity  Self-determination  Collective work and responsibility  Cooperative economics  Purpose  Creativity  Faith  Light candles  Prepare and share food  Honor ancestors  Share talents  Tell stories/read poetry  Give gifts to children  Sing, dance or play an instrument

An Interactive Exercise!

Match the quote uttered by a character in the left-hand column with the movie that it comes from in the right-hand column.

BY NINA K . GL ASER, THE GA ZETTE

“And may all your Christmases be white.”

“A Charlie Brown Christmas”

“Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings.”

“A Christmas Carol”

“God bless us, everyone”

“Elf”

“I never thought it was such a bad little tree. It’s not bad at all, really. Maybe it just needs a little love.”

“Home Alone” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”

“I realized that Christmas is the time to be with the people you love.”

“It’s Christmas Eve and we are going to celebrate being young and being alive.”

“It’s a Wonderful Life” “Love Actually” “Miracle on 34th Street”

“Just remember, the true spirit of Christmas lies in your heart.”

“Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store, maybe Christmas…perhaps means a little bit more!”

“The Holiday“ “The Polar Express“ “White Christmas“

“Oh, Christmas isn’t just a day, it’s a frame of mind.”

“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singling loud for all to hear.”

“This is extremely important. Will you please tell Santa that instead of presents this year, I just want my family back?

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Festivities

M A K E M E R RY I N YO U R OW N TI M E , I N YO U R OW N WAYS!

The options for revelry seem never-ending during the holiday season, with activities ranging from exchanging holiday cards and gifts to listening to holiday music or watching holiday-themed movies, enjoying a special meal, hosting a party, attending church services or visiting a nativity scene, writing a letter to Santa Claus,

28 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

singing and dancing, telling stories, reading poetry, and/or discussing traditions and principles, as well as reminiscing about holidays past.

Community events invite attendance and offer the opportunity for memorable days and nights … and even more memory-making!

Check out what you can do as a single, couple or family!

Events Calendar MUSIC

Dec. 15: Chris Isaak Holiday Tour 7:30 p.m., Paramount Theatre, Denver, $49 and up. Tickets required: ticketmaster.com.

STAGE

Through Jan. 2: “Cirque Dreams Holidaze” Gaylord Rockies, Aurora, $29 and up. Tickets required: tickets.gaylordrockies.com.

Nov. 27: The Nutcracker 2 and 7 p.m., Ent Center for the Arts, 5225 N. Nevada Ave., $15-$69. Tickets required: entcenterforthearts.org.

SHOPPING

NOTE: Admission is free unless otherwise noted. Some in-person events might be canceled due to COVID -19. Before attending, make sure the event is taking place.

Nov. 27–28: Holiday Craft & Gift Show 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 27, 10 a.m.-4

p.m. Nov. 28, Norris Penrose Event Center, 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road, go online for admission prices; sonshineshows.com.

Nov. 27-28: RiNo Holiday Bazaar 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Zeppelin Station, 3501 Wazee St. and surrounding streets, Denver. Free admission tickets: tinyurl.com/2p3tv98z.

Dec. 3-19: Belmar Holiday Bazaar 4-10 p.m. Fridays, noon-8 p.m.

Saturdays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays, Belmar Plaza and indoor shopping hall, 439 S. Teller St., Lakewood.

Free admission tickets: tinyurl.com/tzjt28xh.

Dec. 4: Craft Fair 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Antelope Ridge Club House, 4001 Gray Fox Heights; mary.galusha@gmail.com.

Dec. 4: Holiday Craft Fair 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Cheyenne Mountain High School, 1200 Cresta Road; cmhscraftfair.com.

Dec. 4-19: Belleview Station Holiday Bazaar 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturdays-Sundays, Belleview Station, 6785 E. Chenango Ave., Denver. Free admission tickets: tinyurl.com/4j9k6ukz.

Through Jan. 15: Lush Cosmetics Holiday Pop-Up Shop The Promenade Shops at Briargate, 1885 Briargate Parkway; thepromenadeshopsatbriargate.com.

CHARITY

Dec. 11: Jingle Jog 5K To benefit the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region, 9 a.m., Fountain Creek Regional Park, 2010 Duckwood Road. Registration: ppymca.org/programs/healthfitness/races/jingle-jog-5k.

Dec. 18: Bob Telmosse’ Foundation Giveaway 8:30 a.m., Colorado Springs Event Center, 3960 Palmer Park Blvd. Go online for information: santa-bob.org.

Continued on page 30

LIVE ON STAGE DEC. 2–JAN. 9

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s

Music by Richard Rodgers Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II New Book by Douglas Carter Beane Original Book by Oscar Hammerstein II

TICKETS: (719) 634-5583 fac.coloradocollege.edu

Find important COVID guidelines & requirements at fac.coloradocollege.edu/visit HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 29

Events Calendar Continued from page 29

KIDS & PETS

November: Skate in the Park Acacia Park, opens Nov. 12; downtowncs. com/event/skate-in-the-park.

Through Jan. 1: The Polar Express Train Ride Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad; durangotrain.com.

Nov. 26-Jan. 2 Luminova Holidays Dazzling lights, candy cane tunnel, rides and more, Elitch Gardens, 2000 Elitch Circle, Denver. Go online for ticket prices. Tickets required: elitchgardens.com.

Dec. 3-5 and 10-23, Dec. 25-Jan. 1: Electric Safari Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs. Tickets: cmzoo.org/events-programs/specialevents/electric-safari.

OTHER EVENTS

Through Jan. 8: Blossoms of Light Celebrate the holiday season with

a dazzling and ever-changing display of light and color, closed Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 25) and Christmas Day (Dec. 25), Denver Botanic Gardens York Street, Denver.

Tickets: botanicgardens.org/events/ special-events/blossoms-light.

Nov. 26-Jan. 2: Trails of Light A winding path glistening with lights that illuminate the Colorado countryside, Chatfield Farms, Littleton. Tickets: botanicgardens.org/events/specialevents/trail-lights.

Nov. 27-Jan. 1: Holiday Headframe Lighting Headframes of mining days will light up the sky with holiday ornaments and more, Victor and Cripple Creek; victorcolorado.com/events.htm.

Nov. 27: Christmas Stroll Carolers, holiday fund and more, 5-8 p.m., Old Colorado City; shopoldcoloradocity.com /christmas-stroll.

Dec. 3-4: 1940s White Christmas Ball Doors open at 3:30 p.m., Hyatt Regency Downtown Convention Center, Denver. Tickets required: 1940sball.org.

Dec. 4: Festival of Lights Parade Downtown Colorado Springs; coloradospringsfestivaloflights.com.

Dec. 4: Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas With 250,000 LED holiday lights, Breckenridge; gobreck.com/event/lightingbreckenridge-race-santas.

Dec. 14: Southern Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce Holiday Luncheon Gala 11 a.m.-1 p.m., DoubleTree by Hilton, 1775 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., $60-$80.

Tickets required: tinyurl.com/2cyjxdbr.

Dec. 31: Crumb’s New Year’s Eve Boulder Bash 8 p.m., Boulder Theater, Boulder, $35-$39.50. Tickets required: axs.com.

The Iron Springs Chateau Historic Melodrama Theater 444 Ruxton Ave, Manitou Springs, CO

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JOIN US FOR THE HOLIDAYS

OPEN FOR THE SEASON!

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY ‘Cause Everybody Needs a Little Drama!

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Call for Reservations:

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Schedule and details: www.DowntownCS.com/skate 30 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

Senior, Military & Group Rates Available

HOLIDAY 2021

THE NUTCRACKER Short & Sweet This Weekend!

November 26 – 28 Pikes Peak Center

Thomas Wilson conductor Oklahoma City Ballet Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale

The Philharmonic returns in full strength for the official start of the holiday season. This 60-minute production is perfect for families – delighting young audiences and the young at heart!

Concert Sponsors:

COLORADO SPRINGS

PHILHARMONIC GUILD

Christmas Symphony Sun. Dec. 19 at 2:30pm

Thomas Wilson conductor Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale

Christmas classics, seasonal favorites, and a very merry sing-along make for a spectacular holiday celebration shared with family and friends.

New Year’s Eve Fri. Dec. 31 at 7:30pm Thomas Wilson conductor

The Springs’ longest running New Year’s Eve bash! Ring in 2022 with the one you love in an unforgettable night of jazz classics and romantic Broadway hits.

ORDER TODAY! (719) 520-SHOW | csphilharmonic.org 2021-22 Concert Season presented by:

HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 31

Gift of Giving B E B I G - H E ARTE D AN D O P E N - HA N D E D

“We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” — Winston Churchill The fact is, when you do good you feel good … whether that means volunteering your time and talents or donating to one (or more) of the many nonprofit agencies in

32 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

the Pikes Peak-area community.

Now, more than ever, people need a helping hand.

If you are able to provide hope to those less fortunate, now is the time. Give generously today to make a difference in the life of someone in need tomorrow.

Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care, one of the Empty Stocking Fund’s partner agencies, has helped thousands of patients and their families face the physical, emotional and spiritual demands of life-limiting illness since 1980. Courtesy photo.

Empty Stocking Fund keeps the long-term recovery going for our community

BY K ELLY SPIEK ER, GA ZETTE CH A R ITIES FOUNDATION

One donation.

Twenty agencies.

A whole community served.

Since 1984, the Empty Stocking Fund (ESF) has raised over $23 million to help your neighbors stay in their homes; put food on the table; find resources for their mental and physical health in the community; Veterans make the transition to civilian life and find work; plus, so much more.

The collective impact of the Fund’s donors and its partner agencies can assume many of the burdens that our community faces, especially in light of recent global events that have left many of our neighbors vulnerable to hunger and homelessness, as well as to help assist with children’s and healthcare needs. You can help.

Last year, the ESF raised $1,528,501, the highest amount ever raised in its 37 years. Now, more than ever, the Fund recommits to surpassing all former fundraising records and really stepping up for the community of friends and neighbors who need a temporary handup in these challenging days.

“People facing challenges is nothing new, but what is new is the sheer number of people in need of assistance, in light of the pandemic and its aftermath,” said The Gazette President and Publisher Chris Reen. “Many individuals and families have overcome the obstacles in their paths, while others continue to struggle. Our partner agencies and frontline workers — everyday heroes — are there for them; ready, willing and able to provide help and hope.”

Continued on page 34

EMPTY STOCKING FUND PARTNER AGENCIES

American Red Cross of Southeastern Colorado Care and Share Food Bank of Southern Colorado Catholic Charities of Central Colorado CPCD … giving children a head start Griffith Centers for Children Chins Up Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains Mercy’s Gate Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness Partners in Housing Peak Vista Community Health Centers Pikes Peak Hospice and Palliative Care The Place The Resource Exchange The Salvation Army Silver Key Senior Services TESSA Tri-Lakes Cares Westside CARES YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 33

Empty Stocking Fund Continued from page 33

Your giving dollars to ESF have allowed our partner agencies to provide these goods and services: $1,000 provides 250 meals at the Marian House Kitchen. $500 provides 3,000 pounds of food for neighbors in need. $250 provides a family of four with two nights of shelter and nutritious food. $100 provides utilities for a veteran to keep the lights and heat on during the winter months. $25 provides one night of shelter for a homeless mother and child. $10 provides two full stocked backto-school backpacks for students in need — and so many more specific, sustainable opportunities to put your generous giving to work.

The Empty Stocking Fund partner agencies continue to work

under difficult circumstances to engage those in need both virtually and in-person, where possible.

Administrative costs are generously covered by The Anschutz Foundation, Gazette Charities Foundation, The Gazette, El Pomar Foundation, Pikes Peak Community Foundation and ADD STAFF, so 100% of the funds raised go directly to agencies to support those in need and ensure those who require resources and services know where they can go, log on, or call to obtain help.

The ESF team would also like to thank The Broadmoor, The Broadmoor World Arena, Cookie Charm, Fieldhouse Brewing, iHeart Media, Paul Franco, Picnic Basket Catering, Signature Homes by Steve Scott, Summit Catering, The Venue at Almagre as well as many other organizations and individuals

for their continued partnership and support.

The 2021–22 campaign will be held Thanksgiving Day through January 21, 2022.

Every dollar donated to the Empty Stocking Fund grows through matching funds from: Bruni Foundatio: Matches $1 for every $10 raised up to $70,000.

El Pomar Foundation: Matches $1 for every $3 raised up to $200,000.

If you are lucky enough to be in a financially secure position this holiday season, please donate to the Empty Stocking Fund to help neighbors experiencing precarious circumstances.

Now, more than ever, we must band together and keep our recovery going.

Call 719-476-1673 or visit emptystockingfundco.org to donate securely online.

It’s more than a meal Provide hope, joy, and belonging to our neighbors in need this holiday season.

$1 = 6 meals careandshare.org

WE’RE BETTER TOGETHER.

Donate today and make wishes come true at HSPPR.org 34 HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021

Our partner agencies collaborate to impact and serve over 350,000 individuals and families a year.

of Central Colorado Providing Help...

Creating Hope.

One donation.

20 agencies.

A whole community served.

Give now at EmptyStockingFundCO.org

HOLIDAY GUIDE 2021 35