2023 Holiday Guide

Holiday Guide

Gifts • Events • Entertainment

How to cele

brate in Southern Colorado

A special advertising section from The Gazette • Thursday, November 23, 2023 The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 1

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The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 3

Holiday Guide

Gifts • Events • Entertainment

PUBLISHED BY THE GAZETTE NOVEMBER 23, 2023 30 EAST PIKES PEAK AVENUE, SUITE 100 COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO 80903

PUBLISHER

GIFT GUIDE.................5 LOCAL GIFT IDEAS............................................................................6

CHRIS REEN

GIFTS THAT MAKE LEARNING FUN.............................................8

PRESIDENT & COO

HOW TO ORGANIZE A WORKPLACE GIFT EXCHANGE.................................................... 12

RICH WILLIAMS VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

JIM BROYLES

DIRECTOR OF LOCAL MARKET DEVELOPMENT

TRACI CONRAD

DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING OPERATIONS AND MARKETING

KAREN HOGAN

HOLIDAY GUIDE WRITER AND EDITOR

NINA K. GLASER GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

GINA PIETRAMALE ALEXIS SANDS MICHELLE THOMSEN COVER & CHAPTER ILLUSTRATIONS

MICHELLE THOMSEN SALES

LORI CURRY NIKKI DIRKS JEREMY GORDON TOM MCCLUNG STEFANI RACKLEY SUE WILLIAMS

TO ADVERTISE

719.636.0390

4 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

INDULGE................... 14 DINING OUT FOR THE HOLIDAYS.............................................. 15

TRADITIONAL COQUITO COULD BE A HIT FOR THE HOLIDAYS....................................... 16 SAVOR THE CULINARY STAR OF HANUKKAH....................... 18 GIVE THE GIFTS OF BETTER MORNINGS................................. 19

DECK THE HALLS..... 20 MEET THE STARS OF THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS...............22 SNAP GREAT CARD PHOTOS.......................................................24

FESTIVITIES.............. 26 SAY “MERRY CHRISTMAS” WHEREVER YOU ARE...............27

HOLIDAY EVENTS CALENDAR.....................................................28

GIFT OF GIVING....... 32 EMPTY STOCKING FUND: 40 YEARS FULL OF HELP AND HOPE.......................................... 33

Gift Guide “Every gift from a friend is a wish for your happiness.”

— Richard Bach Spread joy and share the love during the holiday season! This publication can help you find that special something for your family, friends, coworkers and neighbors, be they fancy, practical or quirky. Think about who they are, and what would put a smile on their face. No matter what their age or stage in life, everyone loves to get a gift … and it is likely even more people love to give a gift. There truly is something for everyone at holiday time (including those people you think might have everything).

Find the perfect

present for everyone!

The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 5

localGIFT IDEAS

SHOP SMALL BUSINESSES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON TO KEEP COLORADO VIBRANT AND STRONG

giftsFOR ART LOVERS

CUSTOM FRAMING AND ART

Academy Art & Frame Company • 7560 N. Academy Blvd.

719-265-6694 • academyframesco.com We love what we do … and it shows! Academy Art & Frame Company is a custom conservation frame shop and consignment art gallery. We are proud to have served the community with quality craftsmanship and beautiful art since 1997! Providing the highest quality of service and selection to our clients is our top priority. To this end, we work hard to be the most competitively priced local frame shop with the largest selection of frames in Southern Colorado. Our consignment gallery features art from approximately 200 artists. Artist receptions every month welcome you to view solo or group collections. Visit us and speak with a member of our experienced, creative professional team to find the perfect holiday gift.

giftsFOR FOODIES

GOURMET FOOD GIFT BASKETS

Songbird Orchids • 2204 W. Colorado Ave. 719-475-1700 • www.songbirdorchid.com This holiday season, treat your gift recipient to a variety of delicious snacks, including locally made gourmet items! Songbird Orchids’ Colorado-centric gift baskets are specially made to suit a variety of tastes and needs, from savory to sweet snacks, along with optional luxury beauty items. Plus, customer-provided items can be accommodated to make gift baskets extra special! Located in Old Colorado City, Songbird Orchids serves the Pikes Peak region with beautiful in-bloom orchids, hand-mixed wild bird seed, and high-quality food gift baskets for every occasion.

Delivery is available within Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs and north Fountain.

Advance notice is needed for large orders.

gifts FOR HER

NAILED IT!

Frenchies Modern Nail Care • 8776 N. Union Blvd.

719-358-9310 • frenchiesnails.com The perfect nail salon is hard to find — spas are often overpriced; express salons sacrifice quality for speed. Now, there’s Frenchies Modern Nail Care, a brandnew concept taking nail care to the next level. Located in Briargate, Frenchies is an affordable nails-only studio that is natural, exceptionally clean and, most of all, focused on delivering the most enjoyable nail care experience possible. We pride ourselves on superior cleanliness, and don’t do acrylic nails or use jetted tubs — both possible health hazards. Stop by this family-owned business and experience our revolutionary approach to mani-pedis for yourself! We Love Clean.® 6 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

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 participating in festive activities. You just might find your new holiday tradition!

FOR THE ADVENTURER

An Invigorating Wilderness Retreat 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 Experience makes a great gift. Choose from one of our three luxury, all-inclusive properties: Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing Camp, Cloud Camp or Andrew Harper 2022 Editor’s Choice Award Winner The Ranch at Emerald Valley.

FOR THE SHOW-GOER

The Broadmoor Holiday Show Is the family in town, or do you need a fresh idea for this year’s holiday party? Get ready to dine, sing along and enjoy the magic of the season at one of The Broadmoor’s Holiday Shows with headliner Debby Boone returning to the stage. With the Classic Broadmoor Holiday Package, you can make a weekend of it to celebrate with your family or team! December 15, 16, 22, 23 and 24, 2023.

Give the Gift O F

T H E

B ROA D M O O R

Give the gift of choice this holiday season with a Broadmoor Gift Card that can be used toward lodging, spa services and much more!

For additional information, visit broadmoor.com/holidays or call 844.875.9882.

FOR THE FORMAL PARTYER

The Broadmoor New Year’s Eve Gala Want to close out 2023 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 2024 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.

FOR THE HOPELESS ROMANTIC The Romantic Getaway Package

With The Broadmoor’s Romantic Getaway Package, the bespoke details are taken care of and snuggling fireside has never been easier. Voted one of the most romantic hotels in the world, your overnight experience includes sparkling wine, decadent chocolate-covered strawberries, and a $200 dinner credit.

The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 7

make learning fun

GIFTS THAT

STATEPOINT

Want to deepen children’s understanding of the world around them? The holiday season is the perfect time to do that. Educational gifts and toys can extend the learning fun throughout the year and embolden them to make exciting discoveries every day.

The season of giving!

• Blooming Orchids • Hand-mixed wild bird seed & supplies • Gourmet Gift Baskets with local products

the living room bring life to your home

Tuesday through Saturday – 10 am to 6 pm Sunday – 11 am to 4 pm Seasonal Christmas flowers, along with our extensive variety of plants & pots, make great holiday gifts year round!

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22 East Rio Grande Street, Colorado Springs 80903 12229 Voyager Parkway, Suite 100, Colorado Springs 80921

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8 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

Open Black Friday 8am-6pm with 20% off everything in the store!

(719) 596-1819 Open 7 days a week Mon to Sat: 9am - 5:30pm 2450 Montebello Square Dr. Sundays: 11am - 3pm www.wbu.com/coloradosprings

STARRY-EYED Bring the night sky closer to the little ones in your life. With the Magic Adventures Telescope from LeapFrog, fledgling astronomers can focus on the moon at night or nature during the day at up to 110x zoom, and even capture and save images of what they see. This real telescope is accompanied by 20 Cosmic Cards featuring images and fun facts about objects in space, and more than 100 videos and images courtesy of NASA and the European Space Agency on such topics as the solar system, the Moon, star life cycles, constellations, space discoveries and more. A detachable tripod allows for steadier scientific exploration, and its adventure game will have kids dodging planetary hazards, powering on satellites and rebooting robots.

CODING BUILDING BLOCKS Many of the newest hands-on coding kits do not even require a screen to get started. With block-based programming tools, young engineers can get problem-solving experience while beginning to develop the computational mindset needed to code. Moreover,

the featured games and challenges can make the learning process fun, versatile and interactive.

stock it and package it up yourself, be sure it includes all the age-appropriate essentials: markers, crayons, colored pencils, paints, brushes, paper and pencil sharpeners. Pair this present with an easel, so that kids will have a dedicated place to create and display their artwork.

TINY WORLDS Help kids realize just how cool science can be with the Magic Adventures Microscope, which offers 200 times magnification. Budding biologists can zoom in on flowers, animals, food, minerals and more using eight double-sided smart slides that activate amazing BBC videos and images to discover answers to curious questions like: What do plant cells look like? What is sand made of, anyway? Kids can then make their own discoveries by finding things around the house and getting a closer look using the reusable slides or large sample tray. This innovative take on a classic microscope allows kids to save on-screen images, and even features a quiz game to put their new STEAM skills to the test.

GLOBE-TROTTING Young explorers can travel the world with the Magic Adventures Globe.

Using the stylus, children can tap on the 10-inch interactive learning globe and experience new places, languages, cultures, animals, geography, habitats and more through high-quality BBC videos. Its integrated 2.7-inch video screen immerses kids in the curriculum through animations and live-action videos, providing a better understanding of the world. They can also play interactive games to explore the globe, challenge a friend and solve mysteries.

MINI MASTERPIECES Inspire little ones to express themselves through the visual arts with a comprehensive, mixed-media art supply kit.

Whether you buy a ready-made kit or

This holiday season, encourage a love of knowledge and self-expression. With so many fun learning tools and toys to choose from, you can make the jolliest season of the year a time to get inspired.

Fine Candies Since 1903

patsy’s gourmet popcorn, chocolate, treats, and candies are handcrafted and made with love onsite.

1540 south 21st street 719-633-7215 | patsyscandies.com

TED BLUM JEWELERS

Diamonds Estate Custom Repairs

SINCE 1995

thejewelerupstairs.com 31 N. Tejon St. 2nd floor.

Enter on Kiowa St. 719.332.6393

Visit Us Downtown for Holiday Shopping!

The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 9

Colorado’s Original Fountain of Youth Est. 2007

Stocking Stuffers and Gift Cards Available!

Call today to schedule your free consultation!

719.579.6890 Discover what Genesis can do for you!

Lisa Jenks, MD, Medical Director 142 South Raven Mine Drive, Ste. 250 Colorado Springs, CO 80905 genesismedspa.com @official_genesismedspa

20% OFF Your Entire Purchase Monday–Thursday Only Cannot combine with any additional offers.

Must provide this coupon.

Expires 12/21/23.

Largest Selection of Personalized Ornaments, Nutcrackers, & Santas Radko, Old World, Karen Didion, Sports, and Iconic Characters FREE PERSONALIZATION!

726 Manitou Avenue, Manitou Springs • 719- 685-4290 • ChristmasInManitou.com Monday – Thursday: 10 am – 7 pm • Friday – Sunday: 10 am – 8 pm • OPEN THANKSGIVING 10 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

MEMBERSHIP

Do you know someone who loves CMZoo? Gift them an entire year’s worth of Zoo visits with a membership! Our memberships come with a wonderful variety of benefits like complimentary tickets to our holiday extravaganza, Electric Safari (cmzoo.org/electric), discounts on Zoo camps, members-only events and more!

WINTER V.I.P. TOUR SPECIAL cmzoo.org/gifts

A world-class Zoo tour with our V.I.P. winter tour special will give your loved ones memories for a lifetime as they go behind the scenes and meet amazing animals. Available for a limited time only – book yours today! (719) 633-7872

ADOPT AN ANIMAL

Give a hippo, penguin, giraffe or animal of your choice.

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

ONLINE GIFT SHOP

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

ANIMAL GRAMS

Give the gift of a special visit from an animal ambassador!

Perfect for brightening an animal lover’s day, Animal Grams also include an animal art piece.

The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 11

how to organize a

e

WORKPLACE GIFT EXCHANGE METRO SERVICES

th

The average person will spend around eight hours at work each day and do so roughly five days a week. Over time, relationships with coworkers may grow, and people become friendly with their colleagues. It can be customary to celebrate holidays with coworkers at company-sanctioned events.

Personnel tasked with organizing the sharing of gifts can use the following tips to make things run smoothly.

fa

ct

or

DEFER TO COMPANY RULES Companies may have guidelines in place that govern gifting. Check employee handbooks or company policies, which may dictate spending limits or even prohibit gift-giving.

READY TO BLING IN THE NEW YEAR? VISIT US TODAY.

5928 Stetson Hills Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80923 www.rjw.rocks • 719.650.6000

BRINGIN’ IT SINCE 2013.

12 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

KEEP IT INCLUSIVE Companies may feature staff from various backgrounds.

Therefore, resist any urge to affiliate the gift exchange with a specific holiday. Keep terms generalized, avoiding the use of “Secret Santa” or references to Christmas or Hanukkah.

Specify that gift wrap be generic as well.

RECOGNIZE THAT GIFT-GIVING FLOWS DOWNWARD The general rule of the workplace is that people at the same employment level can give gifts among themselves, but employees should not feel pressured to give gifts to their supervisors or bosses. Should one choose to do so, it could be misinterpreted and may cause rumblings across the company.

If supervisors and managers want to gift their subordinates, then that is fine so long as everyone is treated fairly.

DECIDE ON A LIMIT Set a firm spending limit. A range of $15 to $20 may be affordable to most and ensures a nice gift. However, if yours is a laid back environment and everyone is lighthearted, you can have gag gifts or set a silly amount for laughs. Think about requiring gifts be purchased only at the local dollar store.

DO NOT PRESSURE A company-wide gift exchange should be completely voluntary. Only those who choose to participate will exchange with others. The easiest way to do this is to collect the gifts, then hand out grab bag numbers, enabling all participants to take a random gift from a bag or table. Also, gifts should not be highly personal or anything that may be viewed as offensive.

KEEP SPARES ON HAND It has happened before — someone has become ill or simply forgotten to bring a gift to the exchange. Managers or department heads may want to use an expense account to have a spare gift or two on hand so that no participant walks away empty-handed.

Rediscover your Favorite Gallery in Old Colorado City, Now a part of the Colorado Retail Collection.

Make the Holidays Magical for your Loved Ones

Now Featuring Jewelry, Gifts & Art 2531 West Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 13

Indulge “Too much of a good thing can be wonderful!”

— Mae West The pleasures of the season are meant to be shared by everyone — men, women, children, teens, college students, busy professionals and seniors. Engage with your senses, allowing yourself to enjoy the sights, smells, tastes and sounds that are so integral to this time of year. Nourish your soul. Pamper yourself. Can you think of a better way to start a new year?

A little bit o 14 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

f self-care goes a long way!

dining out

FOR THE HOLIDAYS METRO SERVICES

For some people, there is no better way to celebrate the holidays than to spend time with friends and loved ones around the dinner table. Although cooking and dining at home are popular this time of year, some celebrants may not have the time or the inclination to host the holidays at home.

Preparing and serving holiday meals to guests can be time-consuming. In fact, many holiday hosts and hostesses lament that hosting duties can compromise the time they get to spend with the ones they love each year.

Dining out is one way to save time and free up more moments for interacting without the pressure of food shopping, cooking and cleanup. The following are some tips for families who opt to dine out for the holidays.

CONFIRM THAT RESTAURANTS ARE OPEN

Many restaurants close on major holidays to enable staff to spend time with their own family members. This may be more so for Christmas than with week-long celebrations like Chanukah and Kwanzaa. Verify with restaurants if

they have holiday hours and, more importantly, that they will be open on the day you will be dining out. Christmas Day falls on a Monday in 2023, which typically is a day that many restaurants are closed.

MAKE A RESERVATION

If you find an establishment open for the holiday, reserve a table early. Also, some restaurants may ask for a deposit on reservations to ensure you show up.

EXPECT SOME MENU CHANGES

To account for reduced staff or even ease in meal service, some restaurants may opt for a price-fixed holiday menu or a limited menu from their typical offerings. Some may showcase a seasonal menu that caters to holiday favorites they think diners will expect. There also may be fewer substitutions or customizations allowed.

AVOID PEAK DINING TIMES

Restaurants may fill up after church services or around dinner time. Consider reserving your table for a less popular

hour to reduce the propensity for long waits or being rushed out.

BE PATIENT

Kitchens can get backed up on a holiday, and it may take longer than expected for food to make it out to tables. Cut kitchen employees and servers a break as they are likely frazzled. They are trying their best to service all patrons.

PLAN TO TIP GENEROUSLY It is the season of giving, and you should make sure you take care of your server. You can make the day even brighter with some words of gratitude and a nice gratuity.

PACE ALCOHOLIC DRINKS

It is normal to enjoy some spirited beverages during holiday celebrations.

It is easier to indulge a bit more at home and you do not need to get behind the wheel. When dining out, do not overdo things, and have a plan for who will be driving home.

Dining out during the holidays is a fun possibility with practical planning.

The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 15

coquito TRADITIONAL

COULD BE A HIT FOR THE HOLIDAYS METRO SERVICES

Tradition reigns supreme during the holiday season. Putting up Christmas trees, stringing lights, singing carols, and filling stockings with trinkets are just a few of the season’s many cherished traditions.

However, amid the typical holiday hustle and bustle, there also are traditions that are unique to various cultures — particularly foods and beverages. From minced pies in England to kutia in Ukraine and spiced hot chocolate in Peru, many different foods and beverages are savored this time of year around the world.

16 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

Puerto Rican revelers might enjoy whipping up batches of coquito around the holidays. Coquito, which means “small coconut,” is made in batches with recipes passed down through families. It is similar to traditional eggnog, but Puerto Ricans will tell you it is even better. The beverage is served throughout Navidad, or starting after Thanksgiving and ending in mid-January, with the celebration of Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastian.

Those interested in making homemade coquito can follow this “Traditional Coquito” recipe, courtesy of Discover Puerto Rico.

TRADITIONAL CO

1 can of condensed milk 1 can of evaporated milk 1 can of cream of coconut (Coc ½ cup white rum (preferably Do ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

In a blender, add evaporated mi vanilla extract and cinnamon. B minutes. Transfer mixture into serve, pour coquito into small se cinnamon stick.

This is traditional coquito. Experim coquito if desired.

OQUITO

co LÓpez is a popular choice) on Q or Bacardi)

n (add more to taste)

ilk, cream of coconut, sweetened condensed milk, rum, Blend on high until mixture is well combined, one to two glass bottles and chill in the refrigerator until cold. To erving glasses and garnish with ground cinnamon or a

ment with different flavors, like chocolate, guava or even mango

FFueldubeyKlnowdledbgyandKPasnioonw

Fueled by Knowl

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Come and see us at one

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The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 17

savor hanukkah

THE CULINARY STAR OF

METRO SERVICES

Symbolism and the holiday season go hand in hand. For those of Jewish heritage who celebrate Hanukkah, there is more than one prominent symbol of the holiday that endures year after year. The widely recognizable menorah fits that bill, and jelly doughnuts also have withstood the test of time. Many Hanukkah celebrants enjoy a specific variety known as sufganiyot.

According to My Jewish Learning, jelly doughnuts are one of the more symbolic dishes associated with Hanukkah. Oily foods are made to represent the miracle of Hanukkah since the first celebration, and fried jelly doughnuts became tied to Hanukkah during the Middle Ages. Early on they were known as “ponchiks” because they were modeled after the doughnuts served in Poland around Christmastime, but eventually they took the name from the “spongy dough” mentioned in the Talmud.

Enjoy this recipe for sufganiyot, courtesy of Martha Stewart, for your next Hanukkah celebration.

18 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

SUFGANIYOT Yield: 20

2 tablespoons active dry yeast ½ cup warm water (100–110 degrees Fahrenheit) ¼ cup plus 1 teaspoon sugar, plus more for rolling 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting 2 large eggs 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 2 teaspoons salt 3 cups vegetable oil, plus more for bowl 1 cup seedless raspberry jam In a small bowl, combine yeast, warm water and 1 teaspoon sugar. Set aside until foamy, about 10 minutes.

Place flour in a large bowl. Make a well in the center; add eggs, yeast mixture, ¼ cup sugar, butter, nutmeg and salt. Using a wooden spoon, stir until a sticky dough forms. On a well-floured work surface, knead until dough is smooth, soft, and bounces back when poked with a finger, about 8 minutes (add more flour, if necessary). Place in an oiled

bowl; cover with plastic wrap. Set in a warm place to rise until doubled, 1 to 1 ½ hours.

On a lightly floured work surface, roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Using a 2 ½-inch-round cutter or drinking glass, cut 20 rounds. Cover with plastic wrap; let rise for 15 minutes.

Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until a deep-frying thermometer registers 370 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a slotted spoon, carefully slip four (4) rounds into oil.

Fry until golden, about 40 seconds.

Turn doughnuts over; fry until golden on other side, another 40 seconds.

Transfer to a paper-towel-lined baking sheet. Roll in sugar while warm. Fry all dough and roll in sugar.

Fill a pastry bag fitted with a #4 tip with jam. Using a wooden skewer or toothpick, make a hole in the side of each doughnut. Fit the pastry tip into a hole, pipe about 2 teaspoons of jam into doughnut. Repeat with remaining doughnuts.

The holiday season is the perfect time to show your friends and family you care about their wellbeing. And what better way to do that than with the gift of better mornings? From stay-at-home parents to nine-to-fivers, here are three gift ideas that will improve the early hours of their day.

RISE AND SHINE

A morning is only as good as the night of sleep that precedes it. A Restore device from Hatch — with wind down routines, soothing music, guided sleep exercises, and sleep stories and sounds — can make falling and staying asleep easier. In the morning, an alarm light with 22 different colors makes for a gentler, individualized wake-up call, setting the tone for a more peaceful and productive day.

THE PERFECT CUP OF COFFEE

GIVE THE GIFT OF

better mornings

STATEPOINT

This season, brighten your loved ones’ year ahead with gifts that make mornings easier, and more joyful and productive.

Those who like to linger over their morning cup of joe know all too well that a great cup of coffee can lose its steam by the time it is able to be enjoyed.

Now, there is a solution for keeping one’s favorite hot beverage the perfect temperature from first sip to last. Nextmug, a ceramic, temperature-controlled, self-heating mug, maintains an individual’s beverage at their ideal temperature for hours. With three settings, there is room to customize one’s drink and enjoy it for hours. Ideal for home or the office, you can brighten and improve mornings. To learn more, visit nextmug.com.

JAZZ UP THE SHOWER

Take shower time to new heights by letting your loved one bring their favorite audio entertainment in there with them, be it an intellectually stimulating podcast that broadens their horizons or their favorite pop tunes. For students, this gift could even improve their academic success. With so many textbooks now available as audio recordings, shower time can become an opportunity to creatively squeeze in a study session and brush up on the latest material. Just make sure the speaker is listed as safe for the shower.

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The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 19

Deck the Halls “There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.”

— Edith Wharton All three holidays in December — Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa — offer abundant opportunity to decorate your home; the common denominator being lights! During Hanukkah, a.k.a.

“The Festival of Lights,” the hanukkiah (Hanukkah menorah) is a prominent feature in Jewish homes, with the lighting of its candles the holiday’s central ritual. Christmas decorations often include twinkling lights on Christmas trees and strung on the outside of houses, some with candle lamps in windows. Those celebrating Kwanzaa light one candle of the mishumaa saba (the group of seven candles representing the holiday’s seven principles) each night.

L ight up your holiday!

20 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

Deck the Halls WITH

Harding Nursery!

Open House Thanksgiving Weekend Saturday, November 25th One Day Only

Friday, November 24th through Sunday, November 26th

Photos with Santa In Our Winter Wonderland!

10 am – 3 pm

Enjoy our great selection of cut and live Christmas trees, ornaments, and custom wreaths, while you warm up with hot cider and goodies!

Walk-ins only Prices start at $25

By Snowshoe Studios

Friday, November 24th Meet Our Family’s Farm Animals!

10 am – 3 pm

One FREE ornament with every Christmas Tree purchase!

Your choice, up to $7.99.

Family Owned since 1957

721 North Powers Boulevard • 719-596-5712 OPEN UNTIL 5 PM ON FRIDAYS DURING THE CHRISTMAS SEASON

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

1 North Powers Boulevard • 719-596-5712

The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 21

MEET THE STARS OF THE

12 days of christmas

BY NINA GLASER, THE GAZETTE

A PARTRIDGE is a plump, mediumsized galliform bird that is part of the pheasant family. They live in global forests, grasslands and rocky plains.

The ground-dwelling, grouse-like gamebird is curious and has feathers of different colors.

The vibrant TURTLE DOVE has a charming call. The birds form strong bonds, realizing lifelong relationships of love, devotion and friendship.

22 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

FRENCH HENS are a breed of chicken developed in north-central France in the 1860s. They were originally used for their eggs and meat.

Named for their ability to communicate via sound, CALLING BIRDS connect with each other via an inherent note. Their vocalizations are a form of identification. (In the song the four calling birds are said to represent Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, the Four Evangelists credited as writers of the Gospels).

An outward sign of riches and dignity, GOLDEN RINGS signify prosperity and

good fortune. It is said they open the body’s energy and can symbolize eternal love.

GEESE are large waterfowl that are closely related to ducks and swans. At least 20 different species are recognized by researchers, divided into groups by color: white, gray and black. The largest of these long-necked social creatures can weigh more than 10 pounds and have a five- to six-foot wingspan. Pairs bond for life (which can be as much as 20+ years).

The graceful, long-necked SWAN has a heavy body and big feet. When swimming, they glide majestically; in flight their wingbeats are slow and their necks outstretched, as they navigate in a diagonal format at great heights. Males (cobs) and females (pens) look alike and mate for life.

A MILKMAID was a female — girl or woman — who milked cows, using the milk to prepare dairy products like butter, cheese, and cream, and did other work in a dairy.

In the song, DANCING LADIES are symbolic of the principles of faithfulness, gentleness, goodness, joy, kindness, love, patience, peace and self-control.

Those with the identifying name or title of LORD have authority, control or power over others.

PIPERS play traditional Scottish, Irish or Breton folk music on a three-holed flute played with a tabor drum.

DRUMMERS are percussionists who create music using drums. Their rhythm lays the foundation for timekeeping — the pulse and groove of a track. They perform as part of a band and may also solo.

The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 23

SNAP GREAT

card photos METRO SERVICES

Greeting cards are among the f irst signs that the holiday season has arrived. Mailboxes are f illed with cards and email inboxes have new messages popping up each day wishing others well. Many of these greetings feature family photos.

A Shutterf ly poll conducted by Ipsos in 2021 discovered that, while traditional holiday messages are by far the most popular missives at 63%, younger age groups show more interest in other types of cards, such as photo cards (between 34% and 38%, depending on age group). Forty-one percent of people polled prefer to receive photo cards. That means hol24 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

iday well-wishers may want to brush up on their photography skills.

KEEP CARDS IN THE BACK OF YOUR MIND

eyes may not know where to look when viewing the picture. Photo subjects should coordinate, but wardrobes that completely match can seem contrived.

While the Norman Rockwellesque family tableau or a wintry Christmas scene is a go-to holiday card, any photo-worthy moment throughout the year can suff ice.

Keep a lookout for ideas while vacationing or enjoying time together as a family.

PLAN AROUND NAP TIMES

AVOID BUSY PRINTS

AVOID RED EYE

Stick to solid colors when posing for holiday photos; otherwise, recipients’

If photos involve young children, schedule the photo shoot to occur when they are well-rested and fed. Now may be the time to offer kids treats they do not normally get in an effort to reward patience and happy smiles.

Proper lighting can help avoid the occurrence of “red eye” in photo-

graphs, which happens when the flash bounces off a wide pupil.

Asking subjects to look into bright light before the photo, or utilizing a camera that snaps a small burst of flash before the actual flash, can help alleviate this problem.

EMBRACE CANDID SHOTS OR MIXUPS

Some of the funniest and most memorable photos are when things did not go according to plan. A crying infant or a parent looking away from the lens may not be magazine worthy, but do not be so quick to discard those less-than-perfect snaps.

ZOOM IN TIGHT AND CROPPED

Card recipients want to look at you and not the surroundings. Avoid landscape shots on holiday cards and be sure to focus on the subjects’ faces as much as possible.

ANGLE CORRECTLY FOR FLATTERING PHOTOS Adjust your body posture to look your best. Turn the lower half of your body to the side and then adjust the upper half to move slightly toward the camera to appear more svelte. Position the camera lens at eye level or above to avoid double chins in photos.

SHOW OFF YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR

You can show friends and family you like to laugh by posing in funny ways or by mimicking pop culture references in your photo cards. Recreate childhood photos of yore, or imitate photos from album covers or movie posters.

Relax and have fun with holiday greeting cards. Plan outfits, watch lighting and catch kids at the right time to create memorable cards.

Happy Holidays from our CSOG family to yours

| www.csog.net | 719.632.7669

The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 25

Festivities

“In the garden of your days cultivate festivity, play and celebrations.”

— Mary Anne Radmacher So much to do, so much to see! The holidays are a time for merrymaking. Individuals, couples and families have a wealth of options to “shake things up” — from watching holiday movies to listening to holiday music, enjoying a special meal, attending church services, visiting a nativity scene and attending community events … all of which provide the makings for memories that will last a lifetime.

Celebrate with joy and exhuberance!

26 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

SAY “MERRY CHRISTMAS!”

wherever you are

COMPILED BY NINA GLASER, THE GAZETTE

Whether you are home for the holidays, or en route to or in a home away from home, you can still wish those around you “Merry Christmas!”

Here’s how the sentiment is shared around the world: AFRICA (AFRIKAANS):

Gesí«ende Kersfees ALBANIA: Gëzuar Krishtlindja ARABIA: Aiyeed milad sayeed ARGENTINA: Feliz Navidad BELARUS: z Kaljadámi BELGIUM: Zalig Kerstfeest en Gelukkig

nieuw jaar BULGARIA: Vesela Koleda CHILE: Feliz Navidad CHINA: Shèngdàn jié kuàilè CROATIA: Sretan Boži´c CZECH REPUBLIC: Prejeme Vam Vesele

Vanoce a stastny Novy Rok DENMARK: Glædelig JulFinland:

Hyvää Joulua EGYPT: Colo sana wintom tiebeen ESTONIA: Ruumsaid juulup|hi ETHIOPIA: Melkin Yelidet

Beaal Amharic FRANCE: Joyeux Noël GALICIA: Bo nada GERMANY: Frohe Weihnachten GREAT BRITAIN: Happy Christmas GREECE: Kala Christouyenna GREENLAND: Juullimi Pilluaritsi!

HAITI: Jwaye Nowèl HAWAII: Mele Kalikimaka HOLLAND: Vrolijk kerstfeest HUNGARY: Boldog karácsonyt ICELAND: Gledileg Jol INDIA (HINDI): Bada Din Mubarak Ho INDONESIA: Selamat Hari Natal IRAQ: Idah Saidan Wa Sanah Jadidah IRELAND: Nollaig Shona ISRAEL: Mo’adim Lesimkha.

Chena tova ITALY: Buon Natale

JAPAN: Mer ˉikurisumasu Shinnen omedeto.

Kurisumasu Omedeto JAVA: Sugeng Natal lan warsa enggal KOREA: “meli keuliseumaseu”

Sung Tan Chuk Ha LAOS: Souksan van Christmas LATVIA: Priec iˉgus Ziemassvˉctkus LITHUANIA: Linksmu Kaledu MACEDONIA: Streken Bozhik MALAYSIA: Selamat hari Natal,

selamat Natal MALTA: Nixtieklek Milied tajjeb u

is-sena t-tabja!

MONGOLIA: Zul saryn mend hürgeje NORWAY: God Jul! PERU: Feliz Navidad y un

Venturoso Año Nuevo PHILIPPINES:

Maligayang Pasko!

POLAND: Wesolych

Swiat Bozego Narodzenia PORTUGAL:

Feliz Natal ROMANIA:

Crăciun Fericit!

RUSSIA:

Srozhdestovm Kristovim SAMOA:

La Maunia Le Kilisimasi Ma Le Tausaga Fou SERBIA:

Sre´can Božic̆ SPAIN: ¡Feliz Navidad!

SUDAN: Wilujeng Natal Sareng

Warsa Enggal SWEDEN: God Jul! and (Och) Ett Gott

Nytt År THAILAND: Suksun Wan Christmas TURKEY: Noeliniz Ve Yeni Yiliniz

Kutlu Olsun UZBEKISTAN: Rojdestvo muborak VIETNAM: Chuc Mung Giang Sinh WALES: Nadolig Llawen

The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 27

HOLIDAYevents PIKES PEAK CENTER

190 S. Cascade Ave., pikespeakcenter.com NOV. 24-26: “THE NUTCRACKER” —

The Colorado Springs Philharmonic with Oklahoma City Ballet, Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale and student dancers, 2 p.m.

Nov. 24-26, 7 p.m. Nov. 24-25, $28-$67.

NOV. 28: MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHY’S COWBOY CHRISTMAS — 7:30 p.m., $24+.

DEC. 10: FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH’S CHRISTMAS JOY — 1:30 and

5 p.m., $26-$36.

DEC. 13: “CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY WONDERLAND” — 7:30 p.m., $39+.

DEC. 16-17: CHRISTMAS SYMPHONY —

Presented by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16, 2:30 p.m.

Dec. 17, $28-$67.

DEC. 19-20: “A COLORADO NUTCRACKER”

— Colorado Ballet Society and Colorado Youth Ballet, 7 p.m. Dec. 19-20, 2 p.m. Dec. 20, $29-$54.

DEC. 31: NEW YEAR’S EVE — Presented by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic, 7:30 p.m., $28-$67.

MIRAMOUNT CASTLE

9 Capitol Hill, Manitou Springs miramountcastle.org NOV. 24-26: VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS TEA — 10:30 a.m., 12:30, 2:30 p.m.,

Queen’s Parlour Tea Room, $35-$55.

Reservations required.

NOV. 24-26: VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS TOURS — 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., $12-$16.

GET READY TO CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH THE COLORADO SPRINGS CHILDREN’S CHORALE

DON’T MISS OUT ON THESE FESTIVE AND JOYFUL EVENTS!

'T is the Season A Choral Christmas

Candlelight Concert

Monday, Dec. 18 at 6:30 p.m. at Broadmoor Community Church. Immerse yourself with our top performing groups by candlelight; Sunday, Dec. 3 at 3 p.m. at the Pikes Peak Center. Featuring all CSCC ensembles, plus a celebrating the season with holiday favorites.

Messiah Sing-Along with a choir of community Tickets on sale at kidssing.org. voices joining in, accompanied by the Pikes Peak Philharmonic Orchestra.

PLUS, Messiah Sing-Along

CONTACT US TODAY: 719-633-3562 / www.kidssing.org

What better way to celebrate someone you care about (including yourself!) than with a relaxing manicure or pedicure at Frenchies?

Purchase a $50 gift card and receive a $10 bonus card for yourself.

Purchase a $100 gift card and receive a $20 bonus card for yourself through December 31st.

8776 N Union Boulevard (Briargate) | 719.358.9310 | frenchiesnails.com

at the Presented by

Select nights | Nov 24 - Dec 27 In Pueblo City Park | 3455 Nuckolls Ave | pueblozoo.org/electricritters 28 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

ENT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Shockely-Zabalak Theater, 5225 N. Nevada Ave. entcenterforthearts.org NOV. 25: “THE NUTCRACKER” — 4 p.m., $15-$69.

DEC. 2: A BLUE VIOLIN CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS —

7 p.m., $34.75 or 6 for $75 (plus fees).

DEC. 2-3: “CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR: HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR” — 2 and 6 p.m., $14-$25.75.

DEC. 9-10: “A NUTCRACKER: A HOLIDAY TRADITION REMIXED” — 2 and 7 p.m., $29.75-$44.75.

STARGAZERS THEATRE

10 S. Parkside Drive, stargazerstheatre.com DEC. 1: CODY QUALLS HOLIDAY SHOW — 7 p.m., $20.

DEC. 3: SPINPHONY ELECTRIC STRING QUARTET HOLIDAY SHOW — 6 p.m., $20.

DEC. 8: TRACE BUNDY ACOUSTIC HOLIDAY WITH THE ACCIDENTALS — 7 p.m., $29-$33.

DEC. 15: IRISH CHRISTMAS IN AMERICA — 7 p.m., $25 in

advance, $30 day of show.

DEC. 31: NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH — With Collective Groove,

9 p.m., $89.

TRI-LAKES CENTER FOR THE ARTS 304 Colorado 105, Palmer Lake, trilakesarts.org

DEC. 9: AMAZING CHRISTMAS SHOW: HOLIDAY CONCERT WITH DAVID ARKENSTONE — 7-9 p.m., $35 in advance, $40 day

of show, $20 for students with ID, $80 VIP.

DEC. 16: HAZEL MILLER AND THE COLLECTIVE CHRISTMAS PERFORMANCE — 7-9 p.m., $30-$35 in advance, $35-$40 day of

show, reserve seating is $10 each in addition to ticket purchase.

BOOT BARN HALL AT BOURBON BROTHERS

13071 Bass Pro Drive, bootbarnhall.com DEC. 21: THE CLAIRVOYANTS HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR —

the musical

7 p.m., $39-$99.

DEC. 22: COWBOY CHRISTMAS WITH CODY COZZ — 7 p.m.,

$49-$69.

DEC. 31: NEW YEAR’S EVE SNOW BALL — Featuring SofaKillers with Soapdish, 8 p.m., $175-$200, dinner included.

AROUND SOUTHERN COLORADO

THROUGH DEC. 24: WHERE IS SANTA? — The Citadel, 750 Citadel Drive East, go online for hours. Registration encouraged: tinyurl.com/yc3cckuc.

THROUGH DEC. 24: VISIT SANTA CLAUS — Chapel Hills Mall, 1710 Briargate Blvd., go online for hours. Registration encouraged, walk-up guests welcome: tinyurl.com/3kbyrbe7.

THROUGH DEC. 28: HOLIDAY MARKET — 10 a.m.-6 p.m., closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, Commonwheel Artists Co-op, 102 Cañon Ave., Manitou Springs; commonwheel.com.

THROUGH DEC 31: MAGIC OF LIGHTS — Drive-through light displays, 5:30-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, 5:30-10 p.m. FridaysSundays, Pikes Peak International Raceway, 16650 Midway Ranch Road, Fountain; magicoflights.com.

THROUGH JAN. 31, 2024: SKATE IN THE PARK — Acacia Park, 115 E. Platte Ave, $10, includes skates, $1 off for first responders and military, free for ages 4 and younger with a paying adult; downtowncs. com/event/skate-in-the-park.

NOV. 25: CHRISTMAS STROLL — Carolers, holiday fund and more, 5-8 p.m., Old Colorado City; shopoldcoloradocity.com/events/ christmas-stroll.

Music by Matthew Sklar | Lyrics by Chad Beguelin Book by Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan

Directed by James Bruenger-Arreguin

LIVE ON STAGE NOV. 30–DEC. 31

TICKETS & DINNER RESERVATIONS (719) 634-5583 | fac.coloradocollege.edu

NOV. 30-DEC. 2: CHRISTMAS CRECHE EXHIBIT AND LIVE OUTDOOR NATIVITY — Creche Exhibit, 5-8 p.m. Nov. 30,

1-8 p.m. Dec. 1-2; Live Outdoor Nativity, 6 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 1-2, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 8710 Lexington Drive; coloradospringscreche.net.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 29

HOLIDAYevents CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29 NOV. 30-DEC. 31: “ELF THE MUSICAL” — 7 p.m. Wednesdays,

7:30 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays, 5 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, 2 p.m.

Saturdays-Sundays, $26+.

DEC. 1: WINTER DAY IN THE PARK — With hot chocolate, candy cane lane, pictures with Santa and more, 3:30-5 p.m., Memorial Park, Woodland Park; woodlandparkchamber.com/ copy-of-community-calendar/.

DEC. 1-3, DEC. 8-23, AND DEC. 25-JAN. 1, 2024: ELECTRIC SAFARI — Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, 4250 Cheyenne

Mountain Zoo Road. Cost and tickets: cmzoo.org/events-programs/ special-events/electric-safari.

DEC. 2: TREE LIGHTING — Limbach Park, Front St., Monument.

Donations of food for Tri-Lakes Cares and new unwrapped toys for Santa on Patrol accepted; townofmonument.org/416/monumenttree-lighting.

DEC. 2: SANTA PAWS IS COMING TO TOWN — With holiday craft fair, breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus and portraits, 9 a.m.3 p.m., Under the Sun Dog Training & Daycare, 6540 Vincent Drive.

Cost and reservations: sunriseservicedogs.org/events.

DEC. 2: LIGHTER SIDE OF CHRISTMAS PARADE — 6-7 p.m., downtown Woodland Park; woodlandparkchamber.com/copy-ofcommunity-calendar.

DEC. 2-3: TWEEDS HOLIDAY HOME TOUR — To benefit Teller County nonprofits, locations in the greater Ute Pass area, go online for prices; wphht.org.

DEC. 2 AND 9: CHRISTMAS TEAS — 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., McAllister House Museum, 423 N. Cascade Ave., $45. Reservations: 719-635-7925.

DEC. 3: CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL HOLIDAY BRUNCH — With auction to benefit Ronald McDonald House, The Pinery, 775 W. Bijou St. Prices online. Reservations: tinyurl.com/5nfxtejh.

DEC. 5: SOUTHERN COLORADO WOMEN’S CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOLIDAY LUNCHEON GALA — 11 a.m.-1 p.m.,

Antlers Hotel, 4. S. Cascade Ave., $75-$95. Reservations: scwcc.com.

DEC. 7: ELECTRIC MOONLIGHT — For ages 21+, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, $69.75. Sky ride tickets available at admissions, be in line by 7:30 p.m. Tickets: cmzoo.org/events-programs/special-events/electricmoonlight.

DEC. 9: JINGLE JOG 5K AND KIDS’ REINDEER ROMP — 9 a.m. free Kids’ Reindeer Romp, 9:30 a.m. 5K, Fountain-Fort Carson High School, 900 Jimmy Camp Road, Fountain. Cost and registration: ppymca.org/raceseries.

DEC. 9: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PARADE — 5:50 p.m., downtown Colorado Springs; coloradospringsfestivaloflights.com.

DEC. 9: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS OPEN HOUSE — With musical performances, crafts, cocoa and cookies, 2-6 p.m., Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum Annex, 121 S. Tejon St.; tinyurl.com/2e7yhuc9.

DEC. 9: VISTA RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL CRAFT FAIR — 9 a.m.3 p.m., 6888 Black Forest Road; tinyurl.com/22kcf8a4.

DEC. 9: MANITOU CHRISTMAS PARADE — 6 p.m., Manitou Avenue, from Ruxton Avenue to El Paso Boulevard, Manitou Springs; manitouchristmasparade.com.

DEC. 10: CHRISTMAS CONCERT — 5 and 7 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 8710 Lexington Drive; coloradospringscreche.net.

DEC. 16: THE BOB TELMOSSE’ FOUNDATION CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY — 9 a.m.-3 p.m., or while supplies last, Colorado Springs

Event Center, 3960 Palmer Park Blvd. Each child will receive a book, stuffed animal, age-appropriate toy and chance to win a bike; each family will receive a bag of food. Children must be present. Call 719-646-0896 or go online to santa-bob.org for information.

for these events and more,

GO TO COLORADOSPRINGS.COM

30 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

Holidays are a great time to

re-

The nutcracker November 25-27

(Five performances to choose from)

The Oklahoma City Ballet joins the Colorado Springs Philharmonic for Tchaikovsky’s timeless holiday tradition over Thanksgiving weekend.

Christmas Symphony Sat. Dec. 16, 7:30pm Sun. Dec. 17, 2:30pm

Let the air be filled with holiday cheer as the beloved annual Christmas tradition returns to delight and inspire.

New Year’s Eve Sun. Dec. 31, 7:30pm

FREE

Download the pass with 100+ special shopping, dining, drinking & entertainment offers!

Ring in the New Year with an extraordinary celebration at the Springs’ most iconic event with Broadway hits, timeless classics, and musical spectacles.

Tickets at csphilharmonic.org and the Pikes Peak Center Box Office Season presented by:

Concerts Presented by:

The Nutcracker Sponsored by:

Join us Downtown

Small Business Saturday, Nov. 25 Holiday Stroll, 5-8 pm, Dec. 6 Character Stroll, 11 am-1 pm, Dec. 16 Skate in the Park through Jan. 31

Holiday directory at DowntownCS.com/holidays DowntownColoradoSprings Downtown_CS The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 31

Gift of Giving “Think of giving not as a duty, but as a privilege”

— John D. Rockefeller Jr. Open your heart and your hands to those less fortunate in the Pikes Peak-area community. Volunteer your time and talents or donate to one (or more) of the many local nonprofit agencies in our midst. People always need a helping hand. When you provide help and hope, you can — and will — feel good about the good that you have done. It will not matter that you may not know how — or, more specifically, who — your contribution benefited; the generosity you display today is going to make a profound difference in the life of someone in need tomorrow.

Getting is good; giving is better.

32 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

40 th ANNIVERSARY

EMPTY STOCKING FUND:

40 years full of help and hope

BY NINA GLASER, THE GAZETTE

Thousands of our neighbors do not know where their next meal is coming from, but Care and Share Food Bank of Southern Colorado is making sure that nutritious food gets into their hands, from the cities to the plains and the mountains to the valleys!

The nonprofit gathers and sorts food from multiple sources, distributing to a network of 293 partners — churches, community centers, food pantries, schools, shelters and soup kitchens — in 29 counties.

There are traditional food pantry locations and mobile markets, and mobile food pantries with walkup or drive-up shopping experiences, too.

COURTESY PHOTO

Sir Thomas Browne has been credited with the saying, “Charity begins at home …”

Our home is the Pikes Peak region, where the more fortunate community members have taken that phrase to heart for the past 40 years. Their compassionate, generous nature has motivated them to donate to the care of those less fortunate through the Empty Stocking Fund, one of the oldest, safest and well-trusted fundraising campaigns.

The Empty Stocking Fund made its debut to help those in need during holiday time in 1984. The first campaign raised $45,000 and in-kind donations of clothing, food and toys, helping 27 families. By 1987, donations were up to $69,000. The 2022 campaign raised $1.7 million.

The fund currently supports 20 local nonprofits, providing a light in the darkness of homelessness, food insufficiency and joblessness, as well as resources for mental and physical health.

It is a beacon of hope for individuals in crisis or in need of help attaining self-sufficiency. One hundred percent of funds go directly to the agencies supporting services, whether they

are delivered in-person, online or via telephone services. Administrative costs are covered by The Anschutz Foundation, Gazette Charities Foundation, El Pomar Foundation, Pikes Community Foundation, JH Edmonson Foundation, UCCS and ADD STAFF. According to Deb Mahan, executive director of Gazette Charities Foundation, the exponential impact of The Empty Stocking Fund in the community cannot be denied, with programs impacting some 350,000 individuals and families in the Pikes Peak region each year.

“We all know someone who has been touched by one of these agencies,” she said.

“It is the ultimate pay-it-forward process,” said Chris Reen, publisher of The Gazette. “It is not if you are in need of service from one of these agencies, but when. You are not just investing in the Empty Stocking Fund; you are investing in our community.”

As much as the Empty Stocking Fund has changed over the years, some things remain the same. “An illness or layoff can throw someone into a situation of dire need, so the Empty Stocking Fund CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023 | 33

EMPTYstockingCONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

CPCD operates in classrooms, preparing children for

success in school and life through comprehensive childhood services. A staff that includes teachers, family advocates, nurses, bus drivers, and administrative and support professionals, in partnership with Early Connections Learning Centers, school districts and family-child care homes, provide Head Start, Universal Preschool Colorado and Early Head Start programs that ensure children’s educational, physical and behavioral health and nutritional needs are met.

COURTESY PHOTO

has become even more important to the community,” said Founding Director of the Empty Stocking Fund Diane Wengler.

Are you able to donate today so the lives of others are enhanced tomorrow? Every gift plays a part in successfully serving the needs of our community and its members. Your gift has the potential to multiply: H.A. and Mary K. Chapman Foundation matches $1 for every $5 up to $75,000, The Bruni Foundation matches $1 for every $10 up to $100,000, and El Pomar Foundation matches $1 for every $3 up to $200,000.

Join us in setting a record amount in honor of the Empty Stocking Fund’s 40th anniversary! You will be in good company, with community partners to whom we are grateful, including Bristol Brewing Company, Broadmoor Galleries, Broadmoor Jewelry, Colorado Springs Festival of Lights, Colorado Springs Fire Department, FH Beer Works, Genesis Med Spa, Lee Spirits, Picnic Basket, Rock Bottom, Signature Homes

by Steve Scott, Summit Catering, Switchbacks, The Broadmoor, The Broadmoor World Arena, The Country Club of Colorado, Cheyenne Mountain Resort, and Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

Donate securely online at emptystockingfundco.org or call 719-476-1673. Learn more in the “Empty Stocking Fund 40th Anniversary” special section in The Gazette on November 26.

THE EMPTY STOCKING FUND 20 PARTNER AGENCIES

Unwrap a lifetime of wagging tails and furry hugs.

Donate today & make wishes come true at HSPPR.org.

34 | The Gazette | Holiday Guide 2023

• 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 • Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains • Mercy’s Gate • Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center • NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Health • Partners in Housing • Peak Vista Community Health Partners • Pikes Peak Hospice and Palliative Carte • Safe Passage • Silver Key Senior Services • TESSA • The Place • The Resource Exchange • The Salvation Army • Tri-Lakes Care • Westside CARES • YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region

Look for the 40th Anniversary Section on Sunday, November 26th!

Cheers to 40 years of serving our Colorado Springs neighbors!

For more information or to donate visit: emptystockingfundco.org

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