“ Our team has been working hard to prepare holiday menus and activities that are sure to delight. ”
Dear Valued Members,
The holiday season is upon us, and the property has been made ready for you and your family to celebrate in style. Our team has been working hard to prepare holiday menus and activities that are sure to delight. We encourage you to review all the activities listed in this newsletter and make reservations, so you won’t miss out!
Ready or not, the holiday shopping season is also upon us! To help with ideas this year, keep in mind that there are a wide variety of gifts in our golf shop that would be perfect under the tree. In addition, gift cards are always welcome stocking stuffers and are available at the Golf Shop, the Front Desk of the Lodge, Strata Spa, or Strata Med. And, with so much going on this time of year, you might want to consider a hydrating massage, manicure, pedicure or facial at the Spa before those holiday gatherings.
Most of all, we hope that you will enjoy the holiday season with family and friends. On behalf of all the team members at your Garden of the Gods Resort & Club, we send our warmest wishes for a happy holiday season!
Yours Sincerely,
George Fischer President and CEO
TASTES & SIPS
SIP of the MONTH: HOT TODDY
Nothing better to warm up the winter than our new Hot Toddy. Made with brandy, house-made tangerine reduction and topped with freshly made whipped cream and cinnamon. Available in both Grand View and Rocks Dining Room.
Click here to watch lead bartender, Jesus, create the Hot Toddy.
TASTE OF THE MONTH
CARAMELIZED APPLE TART
Executive Pastry Chef Pascal recently launched his first complete dessert menu, and while they are all delectable, during the month of December his Caramelized Apple Tart will be the featured dessert. Consisting of a beautifully roasted apple, shortbread crust, and house-made apple cider ice cream. You’ll want to stop by often for dinner and dessert.
Click here to watch Chef Pascal plate this gorgeous
THE ROCKS
p.m. - 8:00 p.m SPECIALS at Member Discount Does Apply.
WEDNESDAYS
CHEF’S SPECIAL 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m
FRIDAYS
BRUNCH WITH SANTA
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17TH
Grand View Restaurant
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
$85 per adult
$45 per child (ages 6-12) Click here to view the menu digitally.
*Holiday and Special Events Cancellation/No Show Policy
The 72-hour cancellation policy applies to all holiday and special event reservations. A fee of 50% of the prevailing event price for each reserved seat will be charged to the member account who made the reservation and cancel within a 72-hour period. A fee of 100% of the prevailing event price for each reserved seat will be charged to the member account who made the reservation that fails to show with no received cancellation before the start time of the event.
CHRISTMAS EVE SPECIALS
ROCKS LOUNGE AND DINING ROOM & GRAND VIEW RESTAURANT
Sunday, December 24th
5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Join us for Christmas Eve and enjoy your choice of Meyers Prime Filet or Lemon Garlic Roasted Halibut along with soup and dessert.
Click here to view the menu.
NEW YEARS EVE
GRAND VIEW RESTAURANT
Sunday, December 31st
$129++ per person
Ring in the New Year with a special celebration at Grand View. The evening will begin with a welcome reception at 7:00 p.m., plated dinner beginning at 8:00 p.m., and a live band (Dotsero) throughout the night.
Click here to view the menu.
ROCKS LOUNGE
LAURA RUPEJKO
Wednesday, December 6, 13, 20, & 27
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
DERYK CUNNINGHAM
Friday, December 8, 15, 22, 29
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
JANA LEE ROSS
Friday, December 1
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
GRAND VIEW
MONDAY - SATURDAY BREAKFAST
7:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. LUNCH
11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. HAPPY HOUR
2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. DINNER
5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
SUNDAYS
BREAKFAST
7:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. BRUNCH BUFFET
10:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. HAPPY HOUR
2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. DINNER
5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
ROCKS LOUNGE & DINING ROOM
MONDAY - SATURDAY LUNCH
11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. HAPPY HOUR
2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. DINNER
5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
SUNDAYS
A LA CARTE BRUNCH
11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. HAPPY HOUR
2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. DINNER
5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
UPDATES TO HOURS OF OPERATION
KC GRILLE
Open Wednesday - Sunday 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Reopening Date TBD
ROCKS LOUNGE AND DINING ROOM
Closed beginning January 2nd
GRAND VIEW RESTAURANT
Updates starting January 2nd Open Daily
Breakfast: 7:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Lunch: 11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Dinner: 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Bar: 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
BEACH AND CABLE BARISTA
Updates starting January 2nd Open Daily 6:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
WELCOME BACK TO KC GRILLE
We are thrilled to welcome you back to KC Grille later this month! In the meantime, our new menus are ready to go:
Click here to view the KC Grille Menu. Click here to view the Dessert Menu. Click here to view the Beverage Menu.
Chef de Cuisine Jayson Leano has crafted some delicious new dishes that we're sure you'll love. We're also introducing Fish and Chips Friday in addition to our standard Chef Specials, Prime Rib Night, and Burger Night.
Farmhouse White Cheddar, Avocado, Lettuce, Tomato, Aji Amarillo Aioli, House Pickles, Brioche Bun
TEED UP WHAT’S
FROST DELAYS
What every golfer should know about frost…how often your morning is affected by frost delays depends not just on the weather, but a variety of factors.
Crunchy grass is vulnerable to damage.
Golf course turf is normally resilient to traffic, but when ice crystals form inside the plants, they become brittle. Walking or driving over frost-covered grass can rupture plant cells, leading to dead turf, or the plants may be weakened without immediate showing effects. It can take grass more than a month to recover from this damage.
Location is everything.
You can look out the window and see no signs of frost, only to find a frost delay when you get to the course. Know that frost can linger in colder microclimates long after areas have thawed. North facing slopes, low-lying areas, and areas sheltered from the wind are especially likely to remain covered with frost. When in doubt, call the Golf Shop to check on course conditions before leaving the house.
Closely mown turf is at high risk.
Frost damage can occur throughout the course, but it poses the greatest risk to closely mown turf. Putting greens are particularly vulnerable because they experience the most concentrated traffic. A foursome typically takes 300 steps or more per green; and with frost present, each step could cause serious damage.
Looks can be deceiving.
No signs of frost on the first tee doesn’t mean and immediate “all clear” sign. If frost remains unavoidable early in the round, the course must remain closed. Also remember once the is totally clear, the maintenance staff will still need time to catch up on course preparation before play can begin.
MEET JACK EVANS
We are pleased to welcome our newest Assistant Golf Professional, Jack Evans, to the Kissing Camels Golf Staff. Jack joins us from The Country Club of Sioux Falls in South Dakota. We are excited to have Jack on board assisting with all facets of our operation. Next time you are at the Club, please stop by and introduce yourself to Jack.
KCLGA & MGA MEMBERS
If your personal information has changed and needs to be updated for the 2024 League Roster Books, please email Jon Roth at jroth@gardenofthegodsresort.com with that information.
We will be working on updating information, schedules, and events in the coming weeks.
HOURS OF OPERATION
GOLF SHOP
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
GOLF COURSE
(Frost and Weather Permitting) 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
PRACTICE RANGE
9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
SHORT GAME AREA CLOSED FOR THE SEASON
Due to potential frost delays in December, tee times will begin at 10:00 a.m. for the entire month. Please call the golf shop prior to tee off for updated course conditions and/or delays.
Winter course rotations began on November 1st. We will do our best to keep a normal 18-hole course rotation in play until we transition entirely to the winter course. Winter guest rates went into effect on Saturday, November 11th.
• Please make sure your have a tee time, walk ups are very difficult when we are only untilizing 18-holes. Please do not expect to play if you do not have a tee time
• Please call ahead for frost & weather delays (719-636-2520)
• Frost/weather delays or closures will be emailed via Jonas to all members with tee times on the day of play.
• It is recommended there be a maximum of 2 carts per group during the winter course months. The golf course benefits from less cart traffic during the winter months.
WINTER GOLF INFO CONT.
• The range tee will be limited to the mat area on the south end of the practice tee at somepoint during the month.
• The transition has been made to the mats; range balls are located in the golf shop until spring when practicing only, those members not on the range club will be charged $6 per bag for their range balls. Range balls are included when playing golf.
• Ladies locker room at Kissing Camels will be inaccessible until mid-December, please use the elevator up to The View to use the restroom facilites.
• Make sure you are repairng ball marks and filling divots with sand mix provided
INACTIVE POSTING SEASON
Colorado Inactive Score Posting Season from November 14-March 15
As cooler fall weather establishes itself across much of the country, golfers in some states will find their golf season move from “active” to “inactive” as it pertains to their Handicap Index. What does that mean, what’s the purpose and what if you play a round in a state that is active but reside in a state that isn’t?
What is the inactive season?
Simply put, the inactive season is the period on the calendar during which any round you play in your home state or region does not count toward your Handicap Index.
But my course is still open during the inactive season, why doesn’t my score count? The inactive season exists to address how seasonal weather can impact the conditions of the golf course. When an Allied Golf Association (AGA) issues a Course Rating and Slope Rating for each set of tees at a golf course, both are based on effective playing length and difficulty under “normal” playing conditions. In many parts of the country, there are certain months when facilities remain open but are unable to maintain regular course conditions because of weather. If scores were acceptable for handicap purposes during those times, the Handicap Index of players could be unfairly distorted.
What if I reside in a state that’s inactive but I play in a state that is active?
Let’s say you live in Colorado but play golf in Florida in January – in that case, your score does count towards your Handicap Index. Just remember that, as in all cases, any rounds played on a course other than your home course should receive an Away or “A” score designation when posting the score.
IN OUR COURT
VERMILION TENNIS FACILITY WINTERIZATION
We have started our winterization of the outdoor facility in anticipation for our upcoming winter. The Vermilion facility will shut down tennis and 3 of the 6 outdoor pickleball courts for the winter. We are keeping the 3 pickleball courts open on the North side of the facility in case of a warm day during our winter months. We will keep the outdoor tennis courts available for play at the M&M tennis facility for the occasional warm day as well. In case of really bad weather that will force us to close everything down, we will remain at this capacity until the end of April. We are doing so to help preserve our facility, equipment, nets, and outdoor windscreens to keep the facility looking prime. If you happen to play outdoors, please lower nets after play to help keep our facility in this manner.
CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER!
Congratulations to Julie and Kurt Chan who recently won the USTA National Husband-and-Wife Hardcourt Championships in Claremont, California!
Congratulations to the following players who placed in our November Dinks & Drinks Pickleball Social! Women's Finalist - Taylor Behnke, Women's Champion - Elaine Phelan, Men's Finalist - Cameron Siddens, Men's Champion - Lloyd Batchelor
3-WEEK SESSION
NOV 27th - DEC 14th
Registration is open to attend 2 days a week or just 1 day a week.
Cost $120 for 2 days a week or $90 for 1 day a week.
FALL JUNIOR
CLINICS
Monday
Red Raiders
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Ages 6-8 years old)
Orange Crush
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Ages 9-10 years old)
Wednesday's Only
Tiny Tot's Tennis
4:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Ages 4-5 years old)
Price: $45 for the 3-week session
Orange Crush
4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Ages 9-10 years old)
High School Varsity Tennis Clinic
4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Price: $135 members, $145 guests which covers the 3-week session
Tuesday & Thursday Green +
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Ages 11-13 years old)
Yellow Madness
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Ages 14-16 years old)
TENNIS SHOP M-F 8:30 a.m.1:00 p.m. SAT Closed SUN Closed
VERMILION RACQUET COURTS
OPEN DAILY
8:00 a.m.7:00 p.m.
M&M TENNIS CENTER
OPEN DAILY
7:00 a.m.10:00 p.m.
For Tennis or Pickleball lessons, contact Director of Racquet Sports, Greg Heartt, at 719-329-4012 or gheartt@gardenofthegodsresort.com
UPCOMING
EVENTS
UGLY SWEATER TENNIS SOCIAL
Friday, December 15th
5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
$25 per member, $35 per guest
Time to break out those old, itchy Christmas sweaters and use them for a fun Christmas themed tennis social. We will pair you with a partner for each individual round and play a mixed format. This is a great social environment to meet other new and existing members who also play tennis.
DINKS & DRINKS PICKLEBALL
SOCIAL
Wednesday, December 13th
5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Join us for a Christmas themed Pickleball Social supporting your best “Ugly Sweater.” We will set our rounds and rotations and incorporate sips and camaraderie amongst your fellow members. We will have an award for Ugliest Sweater.
PARENT/CHILD POWER 120 TOURNAMENT
Friday, December 1st
5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
$25 per member, $35 per guest
Join us for an exciting event where you’ll partner up with your child and accumulate points throughout the entirety of the tournament. The team with the most accumulated points at the end will win an award.
COLORADO
COLLEGE PRO-AM
Saturday, January 27th 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Test your skills playing with collegiate tennis players in a fun round robin format!
RACQUET SPORTS CALENDAR
DECEMBER 2023
PICKLEBALL
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY
3.5 + TENNIS CLINIC
9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
3.5+ MEN’S TENNIS CLINIC 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
DOUBLES STRATEGIES & TECHNIQUE TENNIS
CLINIC - 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
NEW 2 TENNIS CLINIC 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
PICKLEBALL JUST FOR FUN CLINIC
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
PICKLEBALL ROUND ROBIN 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
WORKING EVENING 3.03.5 TENNIS CLINIC 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
THURSDAY MORNING DROP N’ PLAY
Pickleball Round Robin run by our staff . Level is open.
All clinics at M&M Tennis Center AT VERMILION RACQUET COURTS FOR TENNIS OR PICKLEBALL LESSONS Contact Greg Heartt, at 719-329-4012 or gheartt@gardenofthegodsresort.com
JAI ALAI PRO EXHIBITION
NEW SPA TREATMENTS
COMING IN JANUARY
Strata Spa will be offering an all new and exciting facial treatment menu in January 2024.
We are partnering with LightStim Light Therapy which is a non-invasive and therapeutic anti-aging treatment which will leave skin glowing.
Additional treatments will include NuFace microcurrent for a lifting and firming effect. The nano-infusion technology, which is often used in red-carpet facials, will soften lines and increase circulation while triggering the natural regenerative process of the skin.
All treatments will be performed by using only the highest quality skin care products by Eminence, Environ, emerginC Rawceuticals and Biologique Recherche . We will also be offering a wide array of new retail products for all your skin care needs.
HOLIDAYS AT STRATA
Click here to view the Holiday hours for Strata Med, Spa, and Fit
Tis holiday season, give the gift of health and hope witha gift card from Strata Med, We also have tons of unique gifts and gift cards available at the Strata Boutique,Strata Spa, and Strata Fit.
NOURISH A NEW WORLD OF WELL
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH THESE TIPS
By Claire Mademann, MS, RD Registered Dietician
Commit to the 80/20 guideline:
80% of the time focus on healthy foods, and 20% of the time live your life more! Holidays are part of normal eating and can fit into this 20%. Do away with the black and white thinking; instead, listen to what your body is telling you and trust that intuition.
Examples:
1) Savor your food
2) Minimize the Damage – for example have ½ of that favorite dessert you’re used to having.
• Prevent Overeating by eating Normally on the day of social gatherings including eating a healthy snack before you go. At the gathering, choose a smaller plate.
• Give thanks before each meal.
• Take twenty minutes to eat your meals, put your fork down between bites, and focus more on conversing with friends and family at mealtime.
Pick 1-3 specific nutrition steps you can commit to starting today, and tell someone about what you’re doing! Have them check in with you during the holiday season to ensure you are staying on track!
SMART PROGRAM
IMAGINE THE HEALTHIEST, HAPPIEST VERSION OF YOU
Join the transformative SMART class (led by Dr. Sheila Bee, MD) starting on Tuesday, January 9th 2024. Discover a transformative eight-week program designed to equip you with invaluable self-help tools for stress management, symptom reduction, and a heightened quality of life.
Throughout the program, you'll gain insights into:
1. Identifying your unique stress responses.
2. Harnessing meditative techniques to trigger the Relaxation Response.
3. Shifting thought patterns and emotional perspectives.
4. Elevating your well-being through better eating, sleep, and physical activity habits.
Choose between two convenient time slots every Tuesday: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. every week
Classes will be offered: January 9th through February 27th, April 2nd through May 21st, and September 24th through November 12th.
Call 719-725-6638 or email events@stratawell.com to reserve your spot today.
Click here to hear Dr. Sheila Bee discuss the details of this life-chaging program.
TREATMENT of the MONTH
Unlock the secret to radiant skin at Strata Med with our exclusive HydraFacial. Experience a non-invasive treatment that cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates for immediate, visible results and minimal downtime.
Rediscover your skin's beauty at Strata Med today.
Plus, HydraFacial gift cards are great stocking stuffers!
BALANCING DURING THE HOLIDAYS
The holiday season seems to throw us “off-balance” with so many events, fancy foods, new faces and new places. While we may have learned to manage our busy social schedules, it serves us to balance our frenetic pace with quiet solitude.
Yoga classes traditionally end with “savasana” (corpse pose). It is a great balancer of our nervous systems as it down-regulates our bodies and minds. The many poses during yoga class help calm the body, which sets up the mental calm that can be achieved through the concluding pose. Though it can take several minutes to control the thoughts and emotions the mind seeks to grasp, the “release point” achieved in savasana is powerfully restorative. Rodney, Amanda, Carissa and Bev understand that balancing is crucial to joyful, healthy longevity. They look forward to helping you find balance this holiday season.
UPCOMING EVENTS
12 DAYS OF FITNESS
December 1st - 24th
Fitness Movement Studio FREE to participate
Earn a free smoothie of your choice from our Beach and Cable Barista. Simply attend at least 6 different Fitness classes for a total of 12 visits to earn your prize.
SKI FITNESS CLINIC
Tuesday, December 19th
Fitness Movement Studio $20 per person
Join Carissa and Shahid to get ready for moguls after 3:00 p.m. and epic cross-country weekends with our ski-specific workout to strengthen your legs, core and cardiovascular endurance. We’ll lead you through an exciting one-hour clinic that will focus on your balance, power and stamina.
Keep that momentum going!
Just 3 half-hour sessions on the elliptical bike, rower, or treadmill and 3 hal-hour sessions of balance and strengthening each week this month will keep burning those holiday calories.
Click here to view
TONYA & WARD
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LAUER & MACAULAY WEDDING
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Tonya & Ward's Winter Wedding. In 2022, we had the pleasure of hosting Tanya and Ward's unforgettable wedding celebration, where they truly sweetened the day for their guests. Our lovely couple wanted to embrace the beauty of a Colorado Winter wedding with snow globe centerpieces, snow capped mountains and even a snow globe photobooth.
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What stole the show and added a “Frozen” touch to their winter wonderland-themed celebration was the snow globe photo booth. With the picturesque backdrop of snow-covered landscapes of Garden of the Gods, the snow globe became the focal point of the event, entertaining guests and providing them with a unique and memorable experience. Guests were able to step inside this life-sized snow globe, capturing cherished moments against the snowy backdrop, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Tanya and Ward's wedding showcased how thoughtful details like the snow globe can elevate a wedding's theme and create a truly unforgettable experience for all in attendance.
1. SNOW GLOBE CENTERPIECES
2. TANYA & WARD WITH OUR SENIOR WEDDING MANAGER, CHRISTI
Photography by Tina Joyner
WEDDING HIGHLIGHT
The standout highlight was the delightful assortment of mini desserts that provided a mouthwatering variety, ensuring every attendee found their perfect indulgence. From petite cupcakes to miniature cheesecakes, these miniature treats added a deliciously memorable touch to their special day.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was when Tanya made a stunning outfit change from her dinner attire into a breathtaking formal dress, setting the stage for a sensational second grand entrance that marked the beginning of an unforgettable party. Ward, looking incredibly dapper in his top hat, perfectly complemented the elegance of the moment. The wedding was a beautiful winter affair, leaving all in attendance with cherished memories of their special day.
FUTURE TRENDS
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2024 is an exciting year for weddings at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club. We can't wait to welcome couples, families, and friends to celebrate their love amidst the backdrop of one of the world's most stunning locations. As we look ahead, we're optimistic about the trends that are set to make weddings here even more unforgettable.
Seated Wedding Parties for Ceremony: Imagine your wedding party seated in the first few rows, creating an intimate and inclusive atmosphere. This trend perfectly complements our outdoor venues, allowing everyone to be present and comfortable.
Midnight Snack: To end the night on a delicious note, consider surprising your guests with a midnight snack. Whether it's late-night burgers and fries or a dessert bar to end on a sweet note, it's sure to satisfy those midnight cravings and add a touch of fun to your celebration.
Embracing Color: In 2024, vibrant and bold color palettes are in and we are to see our creative vendors. Eye-catching hues like vibrant corals, electric blues, and vivid yellows. These colors can be beautifully incorporated into our outdoor settings, enhancing the natural beauty of Garden of the Gods Park.
We're excited to be a part of your wedding journey, where love, nature, and the latest trends come together to create unforgettable moments.
1. TONYA AND WARD ENTRANCE AFTER THEIR OUTFIT CHANGE
Reminder Of Return Policy: Merchandise must be returned within 30 days of original purchase with receipt. If receipt is not present must be able to verify purchase through member account. Merchandise must be in same condition as when purchased. Merchandise must be in original packaging. Payment will be refunded to your original payment method or applied to your membership account. Exchanges: Merchandise can be exchanged for something else of equal or lesser value. Non-Returnable: Merchandise that is not in original condition when purchased, washed or worn items, damaged items and open boxes (beauty products), clearance items and or marked items “Final Sale,” special orders on a case by case depending on if we carry item in the retail outlet or item can be returned to vendor. Gift Cards: No cancellations or refunds.
YOUNG AT HEART
NATIONAL ROASTED CHESTNUT DAY
Friday, December 14th
Celebrate with a staple of the season between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. in the main lobby.
POOLS & KIDS' CLUB
HOURS
Recreation Center and Three Graces Pool: CLOSED
Recreation Grille: CLOSED
Infinity Pool:
6:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. All Ages - Children must be supervised
Infinity Pool F&B Service: Call Room Service at 5234
Teen Room: CLOSED
Kids' Club: Monday - Saturday
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
COCKTAILS AND CRAFTS
Saturday, December 9th
5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
$40 per person Mesa Room Register on the Member Portal
This is an opportunity to spend time with friends, make memories, and learn a new skill! Not to mention, you will walk away with a beautiful new piece for your home or wardrobe! The workshop, supplies, and one cocktail are included in the price of entry.
December’s craft will be wreath making with a local florist.
STORYTIME
SATURDAYS
Saturday, December 9th
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
$15/hour per junior member Register on the Member Portal
Join us the second Saturday of every month for a story time followed by a craft that relates to the book! For December, we will be reading "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" by Dr. Seuss.
MONTHLY MOVIE NIGHT
Saturday, December 16th
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
$15/hour per junior member Register on the Member Portal
Join us the third Saturday of every month for a fun movie followed by a snack that ties into the movie! For December, we will be watching Elf!
GINGERBREAD HOUSE MAKING
Friday, December 8th
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
$15/hour per junior member Register on the Member Portal
Get ready for Christmas by making a festive gingerbread house.
COUNTDOWN TO 2024
AT KIDS' CLUB
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 26THSATURDAY, DECEMBER 30TH
KIDS' CLUB WILL BE HELD IN GARDEN ROOM
Kids' Club at the Rec Center will be CLOSED
We will have a craft corner, cozy corner, photo booth, and lots of toys and games!
$10/hr per Junior Member. Register on the member portal to guarantee a spot for these days.
HOURS:
Tuesday, December 26th 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Wednesday, December 27th 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Thursday, December 28th 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Friday, December 29th
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 30th
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Craft Hour*
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. ($30 per child)
Cookie Decorating Hour*
2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. ($30 per child)
*On Saturday, December 30th only
GETTING IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT
HOLIDAY BEAR TREE
We are so excited to share with you a new way for children to celebrate the true reason for the season with Garden of the Gods Resort and Club. Over the next few weeks, children visiting the club can adopt a bear, name it, snuggle it close, and return it to our tree with a note of love and hope. After the holidays wrap, we will be donating these bears, notes and all, to Children's Hospital Colorado on behalf of our young members and guests.
HOLIDAY DECOR
Click here to view all of the holiday decor here at the Club
LETTERS TO SANTA
Santa's coming to town and he's stopping by Garden of the Gods Resort and Club! We encourage all of our young members and guests to take a moment to write Santa a letter and drop it in our special North Pole mailbox in the front lobby of the Main Lodge.
TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
CAMEL TROT 5K
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNER, TRIP HUNT!
Meet Crystal Jonas
Recruitment and Training Manager
MEMBER
SPOTLIGHT TEAM
Tell us a little bit about your background. I actually started training 27 years ago. I was an Assistant Professor at the Air Force Academy where I taught public speaking and leadership. I was there for 7 years, and I absolutely loved it. I loved it so much that I said, “this is what I want to do forever.” So, I started my own consulting business, and I wrote a few books. I had that business for almost 17 years, and I have spoken and consulted in all 50 states. I started hospitality training in 2020 and it has continued to just be a great delight. it’s always been my philosophy to look for ways to improve myself. I read years ago that sometimes people brag on having 20 years of experience. But they haven’t had 20 years of unique experience, they’ve had 1 year 20 times. And I said to myself years ago, that will never be me. I will always continue to be learning and growing. At the beginning of this year, I actually started studying for my CPTD. I sat for that test at the end of October and passed it, so now I am a Certified Professional in Talent Development.
How will you apply your new CPTD certification here and what can our members expect to see?
I have just taken on this initiative called “Train the Trainer.” I’m very excited about this and it’s going to start with the Food and Beverage department. I am working in concert with our amazing visiting consultant, Walter Iser, who has decades of experience in fine dining. I am also going to be working with our Vice President of Food and Beverage, Paul York, as well as our Operations Manager of Food and Beverage, Jesse Murillo, and I will be training our other managers and supervisors. What we’re going to use as a basis for this is our “I Am Proud” service standards. And that’s everything from the greeting to the farewell. What we want to do is continually make sure that our people are demonstrating the highest standards of service and I’ll be training them to make sure that every day, we’re bringing out the best in our people.
Years ago, I read a fascinating concept of “the slightly better version.” The idea is that for each of us at any moment in time, there’s a slightly better version of ourselves inside of us. The thought is that for us as leaders and trainers to help people recognize that possibility and what it can mean for them. That is my philosophy for training – to help people recognize that it is such an exciting place to be and such a wonderful opportunity to do our best every day at work. While we’re starting with the Food and Beverage with the “Training the Trainer” program, it’s very important to recognize that this is an initiative that is going to permeate throughout the entire resort so that our wonderful members and guests get consistent, high performance, with amazing service as the result. We want our members to have a club that they are proud of.
Erin Dougherty, a writer for Spa and Beauty Today, and her partner Mike recently stayed with us and wrote an extensive article about their experience. They truly embraced our amenities during their stay, from participating in Strata Fit yoga classes, to dining at the Grand View, to taking in an early morning pickleball session, to enjoying a massage and the pink Himalayan Salt room at Strata Spa.
Click here to read the full article from Spa and Beauty Today!
IN MEMORIAM
Mr. Paul Clarkin
Mr. Bill Mottram
NEW MEMBERS
Mr. and Mrs. Eugene and Alexandra Cullen Young Professional Golf Family