COLOSPGS Magazine || Jul-August 2026 || Excellence in Real Estate

Vivistim Therapy™ for Stroke Recovery

rendering shown for illustrative purposes; not to scale. Regain up to 3 times more hand and arm function than intense therapy

Vivistim is a safe and effective implanted medical device2: Clinically proven to help improve function with lasting results in chronic ischemic stroke survivors1,4 Activated during therapy exercises and daily activities Gently stimulates the brain through the vagus nerve to help re-establish brain-body connections3

©2023 TIME USA LLC. All rights reserved. Used under license.

1 Dawson J, et al. Vagus nervestimulation paired with rehabilitation for upper limb motor function after ischaemic stroke (VNS-REHAB): a randomised, blinded, pivotal, device trial. Lancet, 2021:397(10284), 1545.

2 PMA P210007.

3 Meyers EC, et al. Vagus nerve stimulation enhances stable plasticity and generalization of stroke recovery. Stroke. 2018;49(3):710.

4 Francisco GE, et al. Vagus nerve stimulation paired with upper-limb rehabilitation after stroke: two-and three-year follow-up from the pilot study. Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 2023:104(8), 1180. The Vivistim® Paired VNS™ System is intended to be used to stimulate the vagus nerve during rehabilitation therapy in order to reduce upper extremity motor deficits and improve motor function in chronic ischemic stroke patients with moderate to severe arm impairment. Do not use if the patient has had a bilateral or left cervical vagotomy. Risks may include, but are not limited to pain after surgery, hoarseness, bruising, swelling, coughing and throat irritation. Infection leading to explant is a risk associated with any device surgery. For full safety information, please see www.vivistim.com/safety. Individual results may vary.

PUBLISHER’S LETTER BUILT THROUGH PEOPLE

Recognition can be a funny thing. Sometimes it celebrates achievement. Other times, it reveals character.

As I worked through this issue, that was the thought I kept coming back to. The people featured here have earned recognition in different ways, but what stood out wasn’t what they’ve accomplished. It was how they’ve chosen to use their talents, their experiences and their influence in the service of others.

We begin with the members of Elite 25. On the surface, this is a story about some of the most accomplished real estate professionals in our community. But the deeper story is about trust. Few decisions carry more weight than choosing where to live, raise a family or begin a new chapter. The best realtors understand they aren’t simply helping people buy and sell property. They’re helping people find where they belong. And many of these professionals continue serving this community long after the paperwork is signed, through schools, nonprofits, boards and charitable organizations.

That idea of belonging appears again in the story of Lydia Andrews. Her work as a designer isn’t really about furniture, color palettes or floor plans. It’s about creating spaces where people feel at themselves. Her belief that a home should reflect the people who live there says something larger about Colorado Springs itself. The places we care about most are often the places where we feel known, connected and welcomed.

Jen Weis approaches that same idea from a different direction. Through her Feng Shui practice, she encourages people to be more intentional about the environments they create and the lives they want to build within them. In a world that moves quickly, her work is a reminder that our surroundings shape us more than we sometimes realize. A home can be more than shelter. It can be a source of peace, clarity and renewal.

Then there is Mary Rosenoff. After a distinguished career with the Colorado Springs Police Department, she leaves behind a legacy built not only on leadership but also on service. Throughout her career, she viewed herself as part of the community she served. That perspective matters. Strong communities depend on people who are willing to take responsibility for something larger than themselves and who understand that trust is earned, one interaction at a time.

At first glance, these stories may seem unrelated.

Real estate. Design. Feng Shui. Law enforcement.

But together they point toward a simple truth.

A city is shaped by far more than buildings, roads and development. It is shaped by people. People who help others feel welcome. People who create places of belonging. People who serve. People who invest themselves in the well-being of those around them.

Colorado Springs continues to grow, and growth brings both opportunity and change. What gives me confidence about the future of this community isn’t what is being built. It’s who is building it.

To our readers, thank you for allowing us to share these stories. And to our advertisers, thank you for supporting the people, businesses and organizations that strengthen our community and make these stories possible.

The longer I live here, the more convinced I become that the best parts of Colorado Springs were built with far more than concrete, lumber or steel.

They’ve always been built through people.

The Elite 25 celebrates the top 1% of realtors, serving

as a

referral network for real estate professionals.

Within every industry, there is a class of distinction, the cream of the crop. There are those who have proven themselves repeatedly and shown others they understand how to execute their responsibilities with excellence. And beyond reproach.

In El Paso County, the Elite 25 honors not only the dedication and excellence of El Paso County’s top luxury realtors, but also the commitment they give to their communities and their clients.

The Elite 25 celebrates the top 1% of realtors representing this area, serving as a referral network for real estate professionals in the luxury home market. Selection criteria are based on home sales in El Paso County, individual realtor sales volume and other factors.

These realtors bring decades of expertise to every transaction, ensuring clients receive exceptional service through the milestones, decisions and traditions that shape not just homes, but individual lives and their legacies.

“We help people with the single largest financial decision they will make in their lives,” said Patterson Group Realtor Kevin Patterson. “It involves families, money and a fair amount of emotion. They need to have a trusted advisor who they believe in and who can assist them with a complicated process that they don’t do frequently.”

Through relationships, local involvement and a deep understanding of the region, the group helps build stronger neighborhoods, more connected communities and a city shaped by care, trust and long-term commitment. These realtors feel honored to be part of the Elite 25, and they enjoy the support and expertise shared among the group’s professionals.

ERA Realtor Peter Olsen is president of Elite 25 and says he hopes to make a positive impact on the profession by emphasizing its value to consumers.

“It’s a really important time in our industry to show the professionalism and value of the industry,” Peter said.

Building Relationships

For these realtors, real estate isn’t about transactions. It’s about relationships.

“It’s serving (clients),” said Platinum Group Realtor Marquesa Hobbs. “It’s not transaction-oriented. I’m here to help them through whatever life situation they’re going through. Sometimes they’re good, sometimes they’re bad. And so, when I think about how I can serve them, it’s how can I add clarity to the process? How can I make it easier?”

Broadmoor real estate expert Trish Ingels has one simple trick to ensure communication is at the forefront of every client interaction: when the phone rings, pick it up. With decades of real estate experience, Trish said her biggest nugget of wisdom she imparts to young realtors is the importance of making phone calls, rather than texting.

“I like talking to people,” Trish said. “I talk to my people all the time so that they feel comfortable and they’re on top of what’s happening.”

Peter explained his customer-oriented mindset means walking clients through every aspect of the home-buying or -selling process. He personally prepares contracts, writes listings, takes home photos and videos, supervises home inspections, oversees showings and more, all to ensure his clients’ best interests are at heart.

For many Elite 25 realtors, clients become friends who ask for advice years after a transaction. Marquesa said she throws client appreciation parties and events, where past and present clients meet and make new friends. Whether it’s recommendations for Pilates or a babysitter, Trish said she loves to make and build connections for former clients even years after the transaction.

Part of the client relationship is learning everyone’s unique needs, priorities and life situations, because that influences where and what they are searching for. A young family might want to be close to quality schools. Retired home buyers might value the slower-paced lifestyle of Colorado Springs’ westside, while outdoor enthusiasts might want easy access to hiking, nature and other recreational opportunities.

“That’s why we’re here on Earth, to help each other and to make the path easier for those around us.”

“Being a seasoned agent, understanding the different dynamics of the different parts of town, you can help advise your clients on where they might feel more comfortable and feel more at home,” Peter said.

A Changing Landscape

Elite 25 realtors have seen the character of Colorado Springs evolve as the city experienced explosive development and population growth, most concentrated in the northern and eastern regions. In 1990, the city’s population was just under 300,000, compared to nearly 500,000 in 2024 U.S. Census estimates.

That growth has led to new recreational, entertainment and job opportunities. But it’s also led to increased traffic, and the loss of the small-town feel of the 1960s, when the city’s population was less than 100,000.

“It’s no longer the sleepy little town where you could easily park downtown and get around town in five to 10 minutes. I remember when Woodman Road was a dirt road and people rode horses on it,” Kevin said. “Now, we have an airport that serves 12+ cities nonstop, world-class healthcare and a variety of other benefits from that growth. We also have challenges in affordability, public safety and in transportation, but we need to seek new ways to make it easier for people to afford a home and to live in this community in peace.”

As long-time residents themselves, the Elite 25 know why the city has gained such popularity. They said they love the natural beauty, the proximity to hiking and outdoor activities and the relative affordability compared to cities such as Denver.

Service to Their Communities

The realtors of the Elite 25 are also deeply involved in their communities through service to local nonprofits, schools, charities and community initiatives that strengthen Colorado Springs from the inside out.

Peter has volunteered with the Muscular Dystrophy Association and Habitat for Humanity. Patterson has served on

boards for local hospitals, schools, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, and the Economic Development Corporation.

Marquesa partners with for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), which serves children and families in the foster care system. She is involved in Exodus Road, a nonprofit that raises awareness for and fights against human trafficking globally.

She also volunteers with different charitable organizations through the National Charity League, serves on the Board of the Colorado Springs Better Business Bureau and serves on the program committee for the Southern Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

Defining Success

Beyond sales figures and dollar amounts, the definition of success to these professionals comes from other sources.

“I operate from a space of gratitude and appreciation for life and its blessings,” Marquesa said. “I feel like that’s my role, that’s why we’re here on Earth, is to help each other and to make the path easier for those around us.”

Their formula equates to something many can relate to: it includes happy customers, a love for the profession and being surrounded by family and friends.

“Success is being happy with your life. You just have to enjoy your day. You have to enjoy your blessings and what you have,” Trish said. “I enjoy getting to know people and helping people. I enjoy the positive feedback I get from that. It feeds my soul.”

View the complete list of El Paso County’s top 25 realtors at Elite 25’s website.

www.ColoradoSpringsElite25.com

HARMONY AT HOME

More than Rearranging Furniture for a Life of Intention

photography by Dan Kenemore feature by Alyssa Shikles

When most people try to grow their careers, their first moves usually start with resume boosters. Take an online course. Research potential opportunities. Go to a networking event.

Jen Weis, however, takes a different approach. Before anything else, she performs a ritual: cleansing the entryway of her home. She starts by wiping down the entire front door, inside and out, including the handles. Next, she replaces the old lightbulbs with brighter ones. In the entryway, she arranges a bundle of colorful, eye-catching flowers and lights a candle, filling the air with a fresh scent. Finally, she goes outside and sweeps the walkway that leads to her home.

The broom doesn’t just stir up dust; it stirs intention — a deliberate invitation for new opportunities, visibility and growth.

This isn’t décor for décor’s sake. It’s Feng Shui — the ancient Chinese art of arranging buildings, spaces and objects to harmonize the flow of energy and promote balance, health and prosperity.

For Jen, a Colorado Springs native and Feng Shui consultant, the practice began less as a hobby and more as a moment of fate. A few years ago, Jen’s husband gifted her a psychic reading. As the psychic sat with her, she told Jen that she saw her working with homes in the future.

“I asked if she meant real estate, and she said, ‘Have you ever heard of Feng Shui?’” Jen recalled. “I had heard of the words, but I really didn’t know anything.”

Curious, Jen started reading books on Feng Shui and quickly became interested. She began viewing her home through a

different lens, noticing how placement, light and texture shifted the feeling of a room. Jen registered for a course from the Mindful Design School based in New York City and, several months of online classes later, was officially certified in Feng Shui.

At first, Jen applied her learnings to her own home. As she thoughtfully moved items around and brought in new elements, she began to feel an energy shift, both in her home and within herself. She felt more in tune with her environment — more present and awake to the world around her — and experienced a deep peace and calmness that extended to her family.

“When I started to practice at my home, I really felt a difference based off of what I was doing,” Jen said. “And then I started to realize how impactful this could be for other individuals. We walk around not understanding how the energy of our environment impacts our personal energy. We find ourselves trapped in the same ruts, and don’t know how to change. But one way that we can shift that is by shifting our environment.”

In 2023, Jen launched her business as a Feng Shui consultant, offering one-on-one consultations to help clients improve the energy in their own homes. Though her advice can be used for staging or simply to complement interior design, Jen’s main purpose is to get to know clients’ desires and help shift the energy in their home to reflect their goals and needs.

The basics of Feng Shui include the five natural elements: water, fire, wood, earth and metal. Each element is expressed through specific shapes, colors and textures that can be intentionally incorporated into a space. The end goal is to create a balance of elements that leads to personal harmony.

“If I can make a difference in one person’s life on that level, that is something they will carry with them for a very long time.”

However, the more one becomes familiar with Feng Shui and is in tune with their personal energy, the more they can lean into the specific items and materials that will tap into certain areas of need and growth in their lives. For example, water is represented by wave patterns and the color black, but further symbolizes an energy of reflection, flexibility and clarity. So if someone was struggling with feeling rigid or stubborn, they could intentionally bring water elements — like a clear vase with water and flowers — into their home to help them go with the flow.

“The idea is to model your home or office in a way that’s going to support the energy and outcome that you want to have in your life, through the elements,” Jen said.

When working with clients, Jen first gathers basic information with a questionnaire: their birth date, floor plan and the challenges and goals they are trying to address. From there, she starts developing a plan, visiting the home to identify energy blockers and ways to open up energy flow. Once the vision has been laid out, Jen provides suggestions for bringing the elements into the home, allowing clients to choose which items resonate with them — whether it’s a wood carving, candle or stone sculpture.

“After the work is done, I often check in on my clients a week or two later to see how things are going,” Jen said. “Usually, before I even check in, they are reaching out, showing me pictures and telling me that I wouldn’t believe what’s happened in the past week.”

This was the case for two of Jen’s clients, a couple who were struggling with the husband’s job. Though he was trying to find a new position, he was having difficulty finding a good fit. Jen gathered this information and decided to focus on their home’s entryway — a part of the house that symbolizes the career (reread the article introduction here). The couple reworked the space, adding elements of water and fire to represent clarity and visibility. A month later, Jen’s phone rang. The husband not only received a job offer, but it paid more than he had expected.

Service is at the heart of Jen’s work in Colorado Springs. While some view Feng Shui as decorative superstition, Jen sees it as a mindfulness practice rooted in intention and awareness. With some simple tweaks to a room or shifting some furniture, Jen helps her clients overcome the barriers they face and create a space that feels like home — one intentionally designed to foster belonging and peace.

“What I bring to the table is not on a big, grandiose scale,” Jen said. “It’s one-to-one, meaningful moments. In a world that goes so fast, we need to take a beat to be mindful in our homes and be present. If I can make a difference in one person’s life on that level, that is something they will carry with them for a very long time.”

For Jen, the work is not about rearranging furniture for aesthetics alone. It is about aligning a home with the life someone hopes to build. Sometimes, that alignment begins with something simple: washing a door, replacing a lightbulb, sweeping a walkway — and choosing, with intention, what energy is invited inside.

ADOPTED HOME FOR LIFE

Lydia Andrews Has Designs on Colorado Springs

photography by Dan Kenemore feature by Linda DuVal

Lydia Andrews is embarking upon a new chapter in her life.

Chapter One was all about growing up in southern California, the daughter of two creative parents. Her mom was an interior designer, and her father’s interests included painting and poetry.

“I grew up around art and creativity,” she said in a recent interview. “I did a lot of artistic things growing up.”

That led her to attend film school in Los Angeles rather than a traditional college. Then it led to acting and to meeting her husband, Kevin. He’s originally from Colorado Springs, so when a job opportunity came up for him here, they moved to the foot of Pikes Peak in 2014. Once here, she had to decide what her own career path might be. So, Chapter Two.

“Design had always been something that comes naturally to me. I was always redecorating my room! But maybe it’s more OCD than talent,” she said, laughing. She’s also always loved throwing theme parties, arranging flowers and dabbling in sketching and painting.

While living in Los Angeles, she helped a realtor friend with staging some open houses and loved it. There was plenty of time to do that between acting jobs.

“When we moved here, we knew the acting scene would not be the same,” she said. “So, I started working for a staging company for real estate developers. I just kind of fell into it.”

She started making connections.

“What really shaped the change for me was meeting up with a builder here in town and I started doing staging for spec homes. They were impressed with my work and asked me to start staging model homes. Hundreds of people come through, and my name got out there.”

Then she got pregnant and decided that juggling a baby and career had to have some balance. Thus, Chapter Three. She decided to start her own business, Maple and Moss Designs, so she could control how much time she spent working. Or so she thought.

“...You think it will give you a lot of (personal) time. That you can control your own schedule. Then you come to realize that the business is like another child that needs tending, too. But I was lucky in that I could do flexible hours and schedule consultations around my life.”

Then the world went on pause.

“Covid really made or broke people. You could either pivot and figure it out or try something else,” Lydia said. Because she couldn’t stage or design homes in person during Covid, she crafted an innovative path.

“Everyone was home and starting to hate their houses,” she said. “So, now they wanted to redo their bedroom or living room or office. They were just sick of seeing their own rooms. We got really busy really fast. By being able to do things virtually, I got a lot of business. At one time, I had eight designers on board working that way,” she said.

“I love to bring community together. If you treated everybody like your neighbor, what would the world be like?”

“We offered a really easy three-step process. We met with clients by Zoom, the client would send pictures and measurements. We’d find out what they need and source it for them. We’d create a purchase list with the client with links. They handled the procurement, so it saved them money. They liked that,” she added. “We took the risk, but it paid off.”

Her brand is: “We create spaces for belonging.”

She believes that “it’s not just about the furniture or belongings, it’s about creating a space where people know who you are. Ultimately, it always boils down to who lives there.”

At the end of 2020, she and Kevin had adopted 4-monthold twins, a boy and a girl. Balancing career and parenthood had become more complicated. She sold the staging side of the business post-Covid, due to personal and professional demands. By the end of 2024, she decided not to continue having employees.

Another new chapter.

“It just got to be a lot, managing people at work and then family at home. I decided to go solo with fewer clients at a slower pace, but ultimately with a higher return. It’s been awesome, doing what I love but not at a rat-race pace,” she said.

Lydia’s focus now is on designing for a few private clients. And she works with some custom and semi-custom builders on homes for specific buyers.

“I do some commercial spaces as well. A lot of office spaces; commercial is always fun...restaurants are my favorite. You have more space for creativity. A little more liberty than designing for a personal space,” Lydia said.

“Right now, I’m really enjoying being more at peace and feeling more settled. I want to see all the beauty of life. I’m noticing things more. Wanting to mirror that for my kids, too. Knowing what’s actually important.”

And she wants to engage more in the community.

During Covid, she helped organize neighborhood street dances on Friday nights. They even got a local radio station to play the music they wanted, and everyone turned up their radios.

“I love to bring community together. If you treated everybody like your neighbor, what would the world be like?” she asked.

She and her husband have tapped their acting roots and started doing some pop-up plays in public places.

“We find spaces in the city that will work with whatever play we want to do,” she said. It’s versatile enough so that they don’t spend too much time away from their children. They’ve also produced some entertainment for the First-Friday art walks downtown.

“The city is having something of a cultural revival, but performance arts are lagging a little bit,” though there are lots of art galleries and public art, including murals, she said.

But there are not many outlets here for children who want to get into acting. She’d like to see that happen.

With the tapering down of her business, she has taken a new approach to life in general.

For her 40th birthday, she booked herself a solo trip to Italy designed around impressionistic oil painting.

“I do paint, but never have done it with oils,” she said. “I am reaping the rewards of all my hard work.”

She feels like she has found a forever home in Colorado Springs. Having grown up in the sunshine, she still doesn’t like winter.

“I love warm weather. But half the year here is beautiful,” she quipped.

The real reason she feels at home here is because she thinks this city is unique, and full of potential.

“Here, if you have a good idea and the gumption, people will come on board. It hasn’t all been done yet here. It’s a small enough town you can create something new and a big enough town that people will support it. In LA, if I were doing pop-up theatre, so would everyone else on my street... There’s a lot of potential here to do new things and succeed.

“Here, we can make a difference.”

Lydia Andrews is ready for the next chapter.

Designer Lydia Andrews strives to have each interior design project reflect the personality of the homeowner. Her brand is: “We create spaces for belonging.” She also creates commercial spaces and especially loves designing restaurant interiors.

MARY ROSENOFF MOVES FORWARD

A life that prepared her for challenges helped her strive for more.

Be loud, be strong & keep moving forward.

Being the only girl and youngest of five children, Mary Rosenoff learned some valuable life lessons early on.

Recently retired as Deputy Chief of Police over the patrol bureau of the Colorado Springs Police Department, it’s not surprising that she is the first woman to achieve that position. She appears to be unstoppable.

Mary is the daughter of two military officers, and learned about duty and responsibility at a young age.

“My dad was a ‘mustang,’ going from private to major in the Army. My mother was a graduate of the Women’s Colored Air Corps (as it was called in those days), but she ended up having five kids, so she didn’t stay in long.”

Mary was born in Germany, just before her father left the Army and moved the family to Palo Alto, CA. He went back to school to get his master’s degree in history at Stanford. He taught high school where Mary graduated and her mom taught elementary school.

Her life lessons also came from her place in the family hierarchy.

“I have four older brothers,” she said. “So, from an early age, if I wanted to be heard or seen, I kind of had to assert myself, be loud, be strong and keep moving forward. Otherwise, they weren’t going to let Mary follow them around or play with them. I had to be one of the guys or be left out.”

Her family teased her.

“I was told I was a little girl trying to keep up with her bigger brothers, and I said, ‘No, they’re trying to keep up with me.’”

She learned to be competitive and engaged, and she also learned loyalty. Mary’s still in touch with the cohort of nine classmates who started elementary school together and stayed close until they all went to college. They meet once a year to reconnect.

“We all have different backgrounds and careers but we’re still friends. As soon as we’re all back together, there’s an instant connection,” she said.

Besides being a good student, Mary was an enthusiastic athlete. She learned to swim when she was 3 years old. In high school, she

played numerous sports, including field hockey, soccer, volleyball, swimming and softball. She took advantage of the then-new Title IX program to get an athletic scholarship to University of California Berkeley, where she played softball and field hockey.

“I don’t usually tell people, but I was also a cheerleader,” she confessed. “It was hard. But in a way, it’s a service to your school. I just always wanted to be involved in everything. “

And she learned something from all of it.

“It taught me about responsibility. I mean, you have to be there, whether it’s practice or competition,” and it reinforced her skills in scheduling, priorities and decision-making.

Team sports “give you instant friends and teammates, but you still have to be responsible for yourself.”

Before she could graduate from university, she left to take care of her mother after a stroke. Eventually, Mary went back to Berkeley to finish her degree in sociology. And, after graduation, she applied at the California Highway Patrol and was accepted into their academy.

“It was really hard, a 23-week live-in situation. Very paramilitary. A class of 65 with 16 women and only 6 [women] graduated. I had a very good mentor and he told me it would test me as an individual but also as a member of a team. He knew I had an athletic background,”Mary said. “That first day, we had people yelling and screaming at us. It was a test to see what kind of shape you were in. One woman quit at noon, the first day.”

But not Mary. She made it.

“The foundation I brought from my family and athletics got me through that. I ended up working at the San Jose office, the fourth busiest in the state for traffic accidents.”

Mary worked as a highway patrol officer until she was made the public information officer for the San Jose area. She said, “I became the public face, the one who goes to schools doing communications, working with some high-level people sometimes. Now I realize it was a big deal. I needed to have my information absolutely correct.”

After six years there, she married a military officer in 1992, and moved to Colorado Springs, where he was stationed.

“I always say I have three families: my immediate family, my police family and my community family that I serve.”

Without a job initially, she worked as an Olympic Training Center tour guide until being accepted into the Colorado Springs Police Department training program in 1994. One of 14 accepted into the program from 4,000 applicants, Mary started training the same year, before getting on the city’s police force.

City police operate very differently from patrol officers or public information personnel. Mary explained that, after years of working in an office or out of a patrol car, she was called to visit a business or personal home. “Someone has called you for help. You get information, but when you get there it’s maybe not what you thought it would be. The very good training at the police academy tries to recreate a scenario for your actual calls.”

She goes on, “You need to listen and control the situation at the same time. It was a big learning curve for me, to just listen without interrupting. That’s hard for me. I learned to be a more patient person.”

Mary served on patrol for 16 years, and loved it: getting to know the southeast neighborhood community and businesses. And they got to know her, inviting her in for a cup of coffee when she went to check on a family, waving at her when she was on duty.

“I always say I have three families: my immediate family, my police family and my community family that I serve,” she said.

She has always tried to instill a strong sense of compassion and empathy for victims, and also, sometimes, the perpetrator

of the crime. “I hope I imprinted a strong element of humanity in each assignment where I have served. As a training officer and supervisor, I tried to remain a thoughtful and fair person. That’s really what it’s all about.”

Mary has shared her perspective with the people she trained. Having followed her motto of “keep going forward,” she moved steadily up in rank and responsibility until she was made deputy chief in 2022.

She takes every opportunity to talk to people about the police department and its role in the community.

Mary said, “And I want to show them I am part of the community, too. I live here. I work here. My kid goes to school here. I buy groceries. I get gas. I want people to see we have much in common but, when something happens, I’m here for you.

We’re called peace officers. I hope we can do it peacefully, even if it doesn’t make everybody happy.”

Retired for mere weeks so far, Mary feels that being in law enforcement has given her “a sense of belonging to something very honorable. Not everybody’s perfect, but we try.”

Her last role of training future patrol officers was one where she could share her experience and also her life philosophy: “Knowledge is power, but shared knowledge leads to success.”

The Elite of Real Estate

BUILDING MORE THAN NEIGHBORHOODS

Ahome is more than a place to live. It is where families grow, memories are made and futures take shape. The neighborhoods that surround those homes become the foundation of a thriving community. Few professionals have a greater opportunity to influence that journey than a trusted Realtor.

Buying or selling a home is often one of the most significant financial and personal decisions a person will make. In a rapidly growing community like Colorado Springs, navigating that process requires more than market knowledge. It requires integrity, experience, local insight and a genuine commitment to serving others.

The professionals featured in the following pages represent a select group of Realtors who have distinguished themselves through exceptional service, professional excellence and meaningful contributions to our community. While successful transactions are certainly part of their story, their impact extends far beyond the homes they help buy and sell.

Bruce Betts

The Betts Team

eXp Realty (719) 357-5865

5155 North Academy Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80918 facebook.com/BruceBettsTeam

Camellia Coray

CC Signature Group

Coldwell Banker Realty (719) 359-0014

1755 Telstar Drive Suite 250

Colorado Springs, CO 80920 camellia.ccsignaturegroup.com

Adam Dill

The Platinum Group, REALTORS

(719) 243-1270

6760 Corporate Drive Suite 300

Colorado Springs, CO 80919 adamdillrealtor.com

Danielle Frisbie

Danielle Frisbie Home Group

The Cutting Edge, Realtors (719) 351-1793

5825 Delmonico Drive Suite 325

Colorado Springs, CO 80919 homesalesinthesprings.com

JoAnn Gadkowski

The Gadkowski Team

Berkshire Hathaway (719) 339-8909

724 South Tejon Street Suite C

Colorado Springs, CO 80903 realestateagentcoloradosprings. com

These Realtors are leaders, advocates, volunteers, mentors and neighbors. They support local organizations, strengthen communities and help shape the future of Colorado Springs through both their professional work and their personal commitment to service. Their influence is measured not only by results, but by the trust they earn and the relationships they build.

This recognition is not intended to be an exhaustive list of outstanding real estate professionals in our region. Rather, it celebrates individuals whose dedication to their clients, their profession and the Colorado Springs community reflects the highest standards of leadership, character and service.

Together Colorado Springs Magazine and NORTH are proud to recognize this year’s Elite Realtors and grateful for the positive impact they continue to make throughout our city.

Becky Gloriod

REMAX PROPERTIES (719) 229-9777

5590 North Academy Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80918 beckygloriod.com

Marquesa Hobbs

Colorado Hearthstone Properties (719) 238-0330

6385 Corporate Drive Suite 301

Colorado Springs, CO 80919 coloradohearthstone.com

Andy & Kimberly Hunstiger

The Hunstiger Team RE/MAX Advantage (719) 648-2078

5590 North Academy Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80918 khunstiger.remax.com

Trish Ingels

The Platinum Group, Realtors (719) 331-7819

6760 Corporate Drive Suite 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80919 trish-ingels.com

Cassidy Jones RE/MAX Properties (813) 384-6705 1915 Democracy Point Colorado Springs, CO 80908 cassidy-jones.remax.com

Laura Kaan

The Laura Kaan Team

The Platinum Group, Realtors (719) 200-4044

6760 Corporate Drive Suite 300

Colorado Springs, CO 80919 laurakaan.com

Benjamin Kennedy

The Platinum Group, Realtors (719) 310-1914

6760 Corporate Drive Suite 300

Colorado Springs, CO 80919 broadmoorhomesco.com

Amy Kunce-Martinez

The Cutting Edge, Realtors (719) 661-1199

5881 North Academy Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80918 findcoloradospringshomes.com

Kathy Loidolt

The Mission Team

The Platinum Group, REALTORS (719) 641-2977

6760 Corporate Drive Suite 300

Colorado Springs, CO 80919 themissionteamco.com

Lei Lonnie

The Watts Team

RE/MAX Properties Inc. (719) 761-0474

6760 Corporate Drive Suite 300

Colorado Springs, CO 80919 broadmoorhomesco.com

Mike & Missy MacGuire

The MacGuire Team

The Platinum Group, Realtors (719) 660-6793

6760 Corporate Drive Suite 300

Colorado Springs, CO 80919 buywithmike.com

Peter Olson

ERA Shields Real Estate (719) 332-0034

6385 Corporate Drive Suite 301

Colorado Springs, CO 80919 coloradospringsrealestateguy.com

Kevin Patterson

The Patterson Group (719) 575-1200

724 South Tejon Street Suite C

Colorado Springs, CO 80903 pattersongrp.com

Bobbi Price

Bobbi Price Team

The Platinum Group, Realtors (719) 499-9451

6760 Corporate Drive Suite 300

Colorado Springs, CO 80919 bobbiprice.com

Holly Quinn

The Cutting Edge, Realtors (719) 761-0996

5881 North Academy Boulevard

Colorado Springs, CO 80918 hollysellscolorado.com

Michael Turner

LIV Sotheby’s International Realty (719) 434-0199

858 West Happy Canyon Road Suite 100

Castle Rock, CO 80108 homesbyturner.com/agent/ michael-turner

Cole Underwood

The Underwood Group

RE/MAX Advantage (719) 200-4610

5590 North Academy Boulevard

Colorado Springs, CO 80918 coleunderwood.com

Darrell Wass

Pikes Peak Properties Team

RE/MAX Advantage (719) 216-2165

5590 North Academy Boulevard

Colorado Springs, CO 80918 pikespeakproperties.com

Kevin Patterson, Broker Owner

Kevin@pattersongrp.com

3470 Centennial Blvd., Ste. 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 (719) 575-1234

Growing up in a real estate family, I spent childhood weekends setting up Open House signs for my mother, legendary relator Kay Deen Patterson. Yet, a career in real estate wasn’t my original plan. After years in the Marine Corps and then national corporate sales, I returned home to Colorado Springs, where it all clicked. Now, with over 20 years of local real estate sales experience and market knowledge, I bring a uniquely proactive and protective approach to my clients’ lives and schedules.

During my corporate career, I traveled nonstop and my family relocated five times in six years. That whirlwind chapter revealed a glaring flaw in standard real estate. Its not just the house that’s important. There are so many more critical factors and considerations that play into a successful move!

Today, many agents focus on the house and its specifications. They don’t provide deeper insight into our community, the individual neighborhoods amenities or gather information about what the Buyer or their families’ personal needs might be. A house is just a building if it doesn’t fit the logistics of your life or your family’s life.

As your Realtor, I want to be sensitive to your specific needs or requirements for the lifestyle or goals you want to achieve. I recognize

the value of your time and work to ensure my clients get the data they need to make informed decisions.

That “all in” mentality is who I am and what my clients praise: my work ethic, integrity, and commitment to positive outcomes long after closing. In fact, many clients have now become close friends.

Outside of Real Estate, I gladly give back to our community by acting as Auctioneer for various charities and causes. I also serve on a school board, participate on non-profit boards and sponsor various events.

Ready for a real estate experience tailored to your actual life and goals? Contact Kevin Patterson at (719) 575-1234 or kevin@pattersongrp.com.

Peter G. Olson IV, Certified Real Estate Negotiation Expert

POlson@ERAShields.com

coloradospringsrealestateguy.com

6385 Corporate Dr., Ste 301 Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 332-0034

The Secret Agent: I like to joke that I’m the best Realtor nobody has heard of. For more than 20 years, I have dedicated myself to developing the best possible set of skills to give my clients an edge in their real estate transactions. My goal has been simple: Provide knowledge and service other agents cannot, instead of just getting my name out there. I guess you could say I took the “If you build it, they will come” approach to build my practice.

When you hire me, you get me…no team members, no assistants. I insist on being involved in EVERY aspect of the process. That is the only way I can ensure my clients are protected throughout the contract process, and that they are making the best possible decisions based on the data available and my knowledge of the market.

Real estate is the largest single transaction many will undertake in their lifetime, and I take giving advice on whether to buy or sell seriously. That commitment to my clients’ best interests has helped me build lasting relationships. I have clients that have bought and sold five homes with me over the years, and I get calls from my original clients’ kids.

My focus has never been the amount of volume closed. However, I am grateful for the success my clients have afforded me. I am a 12time recipient of the ERA Leaders’ Circle Award, the top agent at ERA Shields in 2023, 2024, 2025, and ranked in the top 100 agents of ERA Nationwide in 2021 (which at the time had more than 40,000 agents). I have also been a member of Colorado Springs Elite 25 since 2021 and, in 2026, was elected president.

On the personal side, I’ve been married to my wife, Suzette, for nearly 20 years and we have travelled to over 30 countries together (and counting). I exercise regularly to keep my sanity, love to hike, play golf, ski, cycle, and play pickleball. I am an avid photographer, and I love to play guitar and sing.

I would love the opportunity to show you how different an agent can be.

Danielle Frisbie, Realtor

Danielle.LoveCOS@gmail.com (719) 351-1793

For Danielle Frisbie, “love where you live — live where you love” is more than a slogan; it’s the foundation of how she serves others. Her dedication to people began early while working multiple jobs as a teen. Those formative years shaped the drive, resilience, and relationship-focused mindset that now define her real estate career.

After college, Danielle moved to Colorado to work in youth ministry, supporting teens in both residential care and community outreach programs. The role was meaningful but intense, and a summer job in Keystone introduced her to Rob Frisbie — her husband of nearly 30 years and biggest supporter. Visiting Colorado Springs, Rob’s hometown, quickly turned into putting down permanent roots. Danielle fell in love with the city’s people, energy, and proximity to the mountains.

Before real estate, Danielle built a successful career in pharmaceutical sales, developing business skills and long-term professional relationships that later became invaluable. Inspired by her own home-buying experience and encouraged by their Realtor, she earned her license in 2002 and broker license in 2005. Since then, Danielle is continuously in the top one percent of local annual sales volume and holds numerous certifications that reflect her commitment to excellence. This is accomplished through the five-star service provided to clients, community and industry professionals.

Danielle goes above and beyond expectations by the visual representation of the homes she sells through thoughtful preparation. Balancing motherhood and growing a business wasn’t easy, but those years strengthened her empathy, flexibility, and problem-solving skills. Her adult sons, Logan and Spencer, admire their mom for her tenacity. As an owner at The Cutting Edge, Realtors, Danielle prides herself on integrity, communication, and guiding clients confidently through complex transactions. Family remains her greatest motivation, and relationships are the cornerstone of both her life and business.

Becky Gloriod, Realtor

BeckyGloriod.com | Becky@gloriod.com 5590 N. Academy Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 229-9777

Becky Gloriod has been a leader in the luxury real estate market since she began her career in 1992. Today, she is a consistent top producer and a trusted name in real estate. As a charter member of the high-end real estate group, The Elite 25, her name has become synonymous with luxury real estate. When asked about her success, she explains, “Luxury is not a price point; it’s a level of service. My priority is to provide superior marketing, expert negotiating, and concierge service. Client privacy is also a must.” The result is a streamlined, stress-free journey from beginning to end. Becky tells her clients, “enjoy the process and leave the worrying to me!”

Before calling Colorado Springs home, Becky grew up in Atlanta, Georgia. She graduated cum laude from the University of Georgia with an English degree and then earned her master’s degree in English and Education. Shortly after that, she married a West Pointer and started her adventure as an Army Officer’s wife for 24 years. During those years, she moved 12 times including living in Chile, Germany, and Italy.

Along the way, Becky built a diverse professional background and expanded her horizons through a variety of experiences. She taught high school and college English, did technical writing, held management positions, and worked in public affairs where she was Colin Powell’s speechwriter. When reflecting on her background, she

laughs, saying, “People who knew me as the little girl who lived in the house with the white picket fence would not recognize me today.”

Today, Becky enjoys exercising, playing bridge, pickleball, entertaining and cooking (she learned to cook in Italy). However, her passion is real estate because, for her, it never gets old. As she puts it, “Every day is a new challenge. I love solving problems and pride myself on being proactive. I want my buyers and sellers to enjoy the process, have fun, and be grateful they chose me to represent them.”

To sum up, Becky’s approach to real estate is rooted in one guiding principle: “Take care of people and the business will take care of itself.”

Laura Kaan, Realtor

LauraKaan.com

6760 Corporate Dr., Ste. 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 200-4044

Trust isn’t claimed — it’s earned, refined over time, and proven through results. For more than 20 years, Laura Kaan has been a trusted presence in the Colorado Springs real estate market, recognized among the top 1% of local REALTORS®, a longtime member of Elite 25, and honored as one of the Top 50 Agents in the Pikes Peak Region by Real Producers.

Known for delivering a highly personalized and quietly exceptional experience, Laura approaches every client relationship with intention, care, and unwavering dedication. To her, real estate is never simply transactional — it is deeply personal. Every client is treated like a member of her own family, and she never takes for granted the trust placed in her to guide such an important life decision.

Her approach is thoughtful and refined. Every home is positioned with purpose. Every client is guided with clarity. And every decision is grounded in experience, strategy, and a genuine commitment to protecting her clients’ best interests.

With a professional foundation in education and high-level customer relations, Laura brings a rare balance of analytical expertise and emotional intelligence to her work. She listens carefully, communicates directly, and navigates even the most complex transactions with a calm, steady hand. The result is a boutique-style experience that feels seamless, supportive, and expertly managed from the initial consultation through closing.

As a Luxury Market specialist, Laura understands how to elevate a property beyond the expected. Through refined presentation, precise

pricing strategy, and skilled negotiation, she ensures each home is not only seen, but truly understood and valued within today’s market.

Clients trust Laura not only for her market knowledge, but for her discretion, responsiveness, and ability to anticipate what matters most. Unlike large teams where clients may feel passed from person to person, Laura personally oversees every aspect of the process, ensuring a level of consistency, communication, and care that is increasingly rare.

Her personal connection to the military community, as the spouse of a former Air Force pilot, further deepens her understanding of relocation and transition, allowing her to serve military families and relocating professionals with empathy, insight, and confidence.

For Laura, success is measured not simply by sales, but by relationships built, trust earned, and the lasting impact of helping people move into the next chapter of their lives with confidence and peace of mind.

Ed & Renee Behr

What began as two young Realtors building a business together has grown into a family legacy serving multiple generations of Colorado Springs families. For nearly four decades, we’ve had the privilege of helping people navigate some of life’s most important transitions. From first-time homebuyers and military families to business leaders and luxury homeowners, our focus has always been on relationships, trust, and serving clients with excellence.

One of our greatest blessings has been building a family business. Today, our sons, Brandon and Erik, along with our daughter-in-love, Leah, are part of the Behr & Behr Team at The Platinum Group, Realtors. While each has developed their own unique strengths and built successful careers of their own, we share a commitment to serving clients with integrity, excellence, and a relationship-first approach. Together, we combine decades of experience with fresh perspectives while serving multiple generations of clients. In many cases, we’re now helping the children — and even grandchildren — of families who first trusted us years ago.

Faith, family, and service have been the foundation of both our business and our community involvement for nearly four decades. Together, we serve through the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC’s Board of Governors and Titans program. Renee also serves on the boards of COSILoveYou and the Colorado Springs Leadership Institute and founded A Daughter’s Heart, a nonprofit that

strengthened father-daughter relationships for more than 40,000 participants over 25 years and became one of Colorado Springs’ most cherished community traditions. Ed serves on the Peregrine Ministries Board and previously served on the Better Business Bureau Board.

As one of the four owners of The Platinum Group, Realtors, Ed has helped build one of the region’s most respected independent real estate companies. While our team has consistently ranked among the top-producing Realtors in the Pikes Peak Region and represented some of Colorado Springs’ finest luxury properties, we’ve always believed that success isn’t measured by the number of homes sold, but by the lives touched, relationships built, and communities strengthened along the way.

What we love most about Colorado Springs is that it is a city of possibilities and connections — a place where people genuinely help one another succeed. We are grateful to call it home and honored to help others find not just a house, but a place where their story can unfold.

Mike MacGuire, Realtor

BuywithMike.com

Team@BuywithMike.com

6760 Corporate Dr., Ste. 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 660-6793

For more than three decades, Mike MacGuire has been one of Colorado Springs’ most trusted names in residential real estate. Raised in the Springs, and Partner/Owner of The Platinum Group Realtors, Mike has spent more than 35 years mastering every dimension of the market — making him an equally powerful advocate whether you’re buying your dream home or selling your most valuable asset.

For sellers, Mike’s approach begins long before the listing goes live. He coordinates every pre-market detail — professional staging, photography, videography, and contractor work — so your home makes an unforgettable first impression. In a digital world where buyers decide in seconds, Mike knows you don’t get a second chance. His relentless marketing strategy and skilled negotiation ensure your home is positioned to attract the right buyers and command the best possible price.

For buyers, Mike brings something no algorithm can replicate: intimate knowledge of Colorado Springs neighborhoods, market cycles, and the nuances that only a true local understands. He never rushes, never pressures, and never loses sight of whose interests he’s there to protect. As he puts it, “I don’t sell and close, I advise and

counsel to help people make educated and informed decisions.” That mindset transforms what can be an overwhelming process into a confident, informed journey.

“Anyone who has lived in Colorado knows there’s more than one way to get over Pikes Peak. With 35 years navigating this market, I know the terrain, I’ve seen every obstacle, and I always find the best path to get you where you want to go.”

— Mike MacGuire

With deep community roots, a client-first philosophy, and a track record built on trust, Mike MacGuire isn’t just a real estate agent — he’s the partner you want in your corner, whatever side of the table you’re on.

Eddie Hurt, Realtor

ColoradoSpringsRealEstate.com

6385 Corporate Dr., Ste 301 Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 339-3765

Choosing a real estate agent is more than just finding someone to open doors; it’s finding a partner who is deeply rooted in the community and fiercely committed to your future. For nearly three decades, I have helped people discover not just a house that checks boxes, but a home they truly love.

As a lifelong Colorado Springs native, my relationship with this city runs deep. I grew up on these streets, hiked these trails and coached varsity soccer at my alma mater, Coronado High School. When the Waldo Canyon Fire impacted our area, I stepped up as president of the Mountain Shadows Community Association to help our neighbors rebuild. This community has given so much to my family, and giving back through local service is a fundamental part of who I am.

When you work with me, you gain an advocate who practices “Radical Responsibility.” Simply put, I own everything under my watch. If a problem arises, I don’t look for excuses; I focus entirely on finding a solution. Real estate decisions can feel overwhelming, but clients consistently appreciate the calm, steady guidance I bring to tense negotiations. After 30 years in business, I know that keeping a cool head always leads to the best outcomes.

For those relocating to our beautiful city, my approach begins with an immersive city tour. Online research only tells part of the story, but

I ensure you understand the unique rhythm of each neighborhood so you can make the best choice for your lifestyle. Long after the papers are signed, I remain your local resource, whether you need a trusted contractor, a reliable plumber or just a recommendation for the best breakfast spot after church.

When I’m not working, my wife and I are usually exploring Colorado’s mountain roads or hiking a favorite trail, constantly reminded of why this community is so special. I love helping people connect to the lifestyle here, and I look forward to helping you write your next chapter.

Marquesa Hobbs, Realtor

ColoradoHearthstone.com Marquesa@ColoradoHearthstone.com 6760 Corporate Dr., Ste. 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 238-0330

In today’s competitive real estate market, exceptional Realtors are defined by earning trust, providing clarity, and guiding clients with confidence through one of life’s most stressful processes. Few embody that standard more consistently than Marquesa Hobbs, one of Colorado Springs’ most respected and award-winning residential Realtors.

Marquesa combines more than 30 years of experience in business, marketing, and negotiation with a concierge-level approach tailored to every client. She believes buying or selling a home is rarely just about real estate—it often marks a significant life transition. Whether celebrating a growing family, relocating for a career, navigating military moves, downsizing, or experiencing unexpected change, Marquesa is known for being the calm, trusted professional who guides clients through both the emotional and transactional journey.

Her business is built on relationships, not transactions. Every client receives personalized attention, strategic marketing, expert negotiation, and proactive communication designed to deliver an exceptional experience from beginning to end. She loves serving as a resource for her clients after closing and also hosts several client appreciation events throughout the year.

Having called Colorado Springs home for more than 25 years while raising her family here, Marquesa offers deep local expertise in neighborhoods, schools, growth trends, and the lifestyle that makes the Pikes Peak region so special. Her commitment extends beyond real estate through active community involvement, including serving as a Business Partner and Circle of Impact member with CASA, participation in National Charity League, and supporting numerous organizations that strengthen Southern Colorado. She loves hiking, paddle boarding, yoga, and Pickleball, and her favorite event to participate in is THE ASCENT, a half-marathon up Pikes Peak. Her commitment to excellence has earned national recognition. The prestigious REAL Trends rankings recognized Marquesa among approximately three million licensed real estate professionals nationwide as #2,570 in the U.S, and #49 out of more than 20,000 Realtors in Colorado. She is also the recipient of the Better Business Bureau Summit Award for Small Business, reflecting her unwavering commitment to ethics, integrity, and exceptional client care, and is a member of ELITE 25 and Peak Producers.

Food + Drink

Tony’s Downtown Bar

$ - Winner of 85+ Best Of awards in 26 years! Great Midwestern tavern with warm beer, lousy food & poor service — NOT! Pabst, Leinenkugel’s, fried cheese curds, Walleye fish fry, burgers, sandwiches, salads, cocktails & much more! $10 LUNCH HAPPY HOUR with great weekly specials 11am – 2pm M-F with soft drink! HAPPY HOUR 4 – 6pm daily! Breakfast menu served all day, every day. Fun activities & events include Geeks who Drink Tuesdays at 8pm, Thurday Night karaoke, & pool tables – plus we’re your sports bar headquarters & a great place to watch the games with the NFL & NHL packages — GO PACK GO! 326 N. Tejon St, Colorado Springs, (719) 228-6566, tonysdowntownbar.com, Open daily, 11 am - 2 am.

Dining Guide

Edelweiss Restaurant

$$ 34 E. Ramona, Colorado Springs, (719) 633-2220, edelweissrest.com

German & continental cuisine. Located near the Broadmoor area. Take a quick trip to Germany with our authentic food and atmosphere. Enjoy our Beirgarten in the summer, and stay warm by the fireplaces in the winter. In-house bakery with 30+ desserts! Live strolling musicians Thu.-Sun.! Open 11 am – 9 pm daily. Dinner starts at 4 pm. Full bar featuring many imported beers and wines. Entrées average $20. Menus & reservations at Edelweissrest.com.

ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFE

$$ - Serving breakfast, lunch & dinner. Enjoy award-winning global cuisine based on slow food principles, desserts made in-house and beautiful views of Pikes Peak surrounded by a stellar collection of fine art! Accepting reservations and walk-ins.

26 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs. (719) 685-1430. Open daily 8 am –2pm and Tues.-Sat. 5 pm–8 pm, adamsmountaincafe.com

JOSE MULDOON’S

$$ - Celebrating over 50 years! Since 1974, we’ve been Downtown’s go-to spot for delicious, authentic Southwestern & Tex-Mex flavors. Extensive margarita & tequila selection. Happy Hour Daily 3 –6pm with food & drink specials! Space available for private parties or let us spice up your next event with our catering! 222 N. Tejon. (719) 636-2311, josemuldoons.com

MacKenzie’s Chop House

$$$ 128 S. Tejon St., Colorado Springs, (719) 635-3536, mackenzieschophouse.com

American/steaks. Downtown’s classic steak and chop house led by the award-winning Chef Chris Heise. MacKenzie’s takes you back to a time when going out to eat meant dining and being treated to an extraordinary meal with exceptional service. Featuring classic American fare with thick cuts of prime, kobe, and choice steaks & chops. Fresh seafood, extensive wine list, and weekly “fresh sheet” specials round out the menu. Private meeting and banquet rooms hold up to 60 people.

Lunch: Mon.-Fri., dinner nightly.

Dining Guide

Pizzeria Rustica

$$ 2527 W. Colorado Ave. Colorado Springs, (719) 632-8121 pizzeriarustica.com

Your slice of Italy in Old Colorado City! Our wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas earned 5 stars from the Gazette and a spot in Food Network’s top 52 restaurants. We’re the third 4-star Green Restaurant in the U.S. Dough is hand-stretched, topped with premium Italian and local artisanal ingredients. Dine indoors or on our cozy garden patio. Don’t miss our chef’s monthly specials, antipasti, fresh salads, and local gelato. Enjoy craft beer, unique wines, or signature cocktails. Visit pizzeriarustica.com for menu, specials, and reservations (highly recommended!). P.S. Check out Enoteca, our hidden upstairs wine bar, perfect for your next private event! Mon. 5 pm – 10 pm. Tues.–Thu. Noon – 10 pm. Fri.–Sun. Noon – 11 pm.

Paravicini’s Italian Bistro

$$ 2802 W. Colorado Ave., Colorado Springs, (719) 481-8200 paravicinis.com

Award-winning staple in the Springs since 2003 that is a culinary destination for family gatherings, date nights and special occasions. We believe our patrons find the most genuine connections through the act of sharing meals together and we are grateful to serve the community with our family recipes. Experience our delicious Italian cooking in a warm family atmosphere with stellar service you won’t find anywhere else in town. We can’t wait to meet you and yours around the table. MANGIA!!

Ristorante di Sopra

$$$ 4 S. 28th St., Colorado Springs, (719) 985-8832, ristorantedisopra.com

Ristorante di Sopra is an upscale dining experience, and the sister restaurant to award-winning Paravicini’s Italian Bistro. Located in Old Colorado City, with panoramic views and rooftop atrium available, we feature Chef Franco’s creative genius on Italian classics with seasonal specialties. Enjoy an extensive, curated, and affordable wine list, classic cocktails, and our wide selection of craft beers. Whether inside the modern styled dining area or on the second-story patio with breathtaking views of Pikes Peak, you’re guaranteed to be impressed. Open daily, 4 pm-9 pm

DOWNTOWN

Poor Richard’s Restaurant

$-$$ 324 1/2 N. Tejon St., Colorado Springs, (719) 578-5549, poorrichardsdowntown.com

Poor Richard’s Restaurant is your go-to for delicious New York-style pizza, fresh salads, hearty sandwiches, and homemade soups made fresh daily. Enjoy crispy, cheesy slices baked to golden perfection, gardenfresh salads with house-made dressings, stacked sandwiches with premium meats and cheeses, and warm, comforting soups. Pair your meal with a drink from Rico’s Café for the perfect dining experience. Dine in, take out, or order online for a meal that truly hits the spot every time! Real Food. Real Flavor. Real Good.

Colorado Mountain Brewery

$$ 2 locations: 1110 Interquest Pkwy., (719) 434-5750 & 600 S. 21st St., (719) 466-8240, cmbrew.com

Come experience the true taste of Colorado! Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, a crisp salmon salad, our unique bison meatloaf Wellington, or our award-winning handcrafted beer cheese soup, you are sure to find an original flavor worthy of Colorado. All house and seasonal beers are locally made from the rich and bold malty finish of the Monumental Stout to the crisp, refreshing 7258 Blonde Ale. We also offer handcrafted cocktails and select wines. Enjoy the views of the Colorado Rockies from our scenic patios. Open daily at 11 a.m.

Andiamo Catering by Paravicini’s

$ (719) 418-2160, cateringbyandiamo.com

Bring the experience of Paravicini’s dining to your private events with our catering company, aptly named Andiamo. Our catering services take our special blend of hospitality and deliver it straight to your door or venue space to make tailored menus for your upscale weddings, garden parties, and more! Let us handle the cooking to ensure these festivities stand out to you and your quests as iconic food memories — and you just focus on the important part, enjoying the moment!

Coaltrain Fine Wine, Craft Beer, Spirits

$$$ 330 W. Uintah St., Colorado Springs, (719) 475-9700, coaltrainwine.com

With over 40 years of passion and expertise, Coaltrain proudly serves Colorado Springs with an award-winning selection of fine wines from around the world, complemented by an extensive collection of local and international craft beers and spirits. Shop local and experience the difference with friendly, knowledgeable service — plus the convenience of delivery and curbside pickup.

Happenings

JUNE 21 - OCTOBER 10, 2026

Simulacra ft. Dornith Doherty, Etsuko Ichikawa & Bill Viola

Ent Center for the Arts at UCCS

5225 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Three world-renowned visionary artists — Bill Viola, Etsuko Ichikawa, and Dornith Doherty — converge in Simulacra, a stunning exploration of nature, technology, and ecological memory at the Galleries of Contemporary Art (GOCA). Free and open to the public.

Learn more: entarts.org/gallery | (719) 255-8181

Box office email: tickets@uccs.edu

JULY

JULY 4-19, 2026

Green Box Arts Festival  6990 Lake St. Green Mountain Falls  greenboxarts.org

This festival in the scenic town of Green Mountain Falls combines natural beauty with high-concept art installations, classes and performances by artists from around the world.

JULY 9, 2026

Taste of Pikes Peak

Hillside Gardens Event Center 1006 S. Institute St. tasteofpikespeak.com

This is the region’s premier food and drink showcase featuring top-tier chefs, brewers and distillers. Indulge in unlimited tastings from 60+ top culinary creators while enjoying live music in the heart of Downtown Colorado Springs.

JULY 14, 2026

Old Crow Medicine Show

Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts

190 S. Pikes Peak Ave. pikespeakcenter.com/events/ detail/old-crow-medicine-show

Experience the Grammy-winning string band’s mastery featuring highoctane bluegrass and the iconic anthem “Wagon Wheel” live on stage.

JULY 14-18, 2026

Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo

Norris Penrose Event Center 1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd.  pikespeakorbust.org

Enjoy world-class western action featuring elite athletes competing in steer wrestling, barrel racing and legendary bull riding.

AUGUST

AUGUST 1, 2026

Sunrise & Sunset on America’s Mountain 5089 Pikes Peak Highway Cascade coloradosprings.gov/special-events Celebrate Colorado’s 150th anniversary from the summit of Pikes Peak. Experience sunrise or sunset on the Summit with a timed entry permit (purchased in advance online). Reserve spots on a shuttle for this event, offered only a few times a year.

AUGUST 1, 2026

Venetucci Farm 5210 US 85

Security-Widefield gathermountainblooms.com/ zinnia-days

For the first time ever, Gather Mountain Blooms opens their zinnia fields for a cut-your-own flower experience at the farm! Bold, colorful, long-lasting blooms in a mix of shapes and sizes. Wander the fields, soak in the farm vibes and create your own vibrant bouquet straight from the field in Colorado Springs. There will be floral-inspired cocktails, coffee from Good Gracious Coffee, brunch from 4th Avenue Crepes and a mini makers market to visit.

AUGUST 1, 2026

Colorado Day

The Pioneers Museum 215 S. Tejon Street

Celebrate Colorado’s 150th Birthday at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum. This celebration of 150 years of statehood includes live music, food trucks, family-friendly activities and, of course, birthday cake.

AUGUST 8 & 9, 2026

41st Annual Mountain Arts Festival

Memorial Park

200 N. Park St. Woodland Park themountainartists.org

Visit the beautiful in the “City above the Clouds” where 100 talented artists will display and sell their unique, handmade original art for you to enjoy and take home. In addition to art, there will be local food trucks and live music, plus a kids playground and water feature. Produced by the Mountain Artists.

AUGUST 22, 2026

La Vida Celebration

Country Club of Colorado

125 E. Clubhouse Drive  cshispanicchamber. com/events/la-vida

La Vida! brings a Latin-inspired poolside and beachside event to more than 700 guests at The Cheyenne Mountain Resort. Guests are treated to a cultural experience centered around Latininspired music, cuisine, pools, beach and lake with quintessential Colorado mountain views. Small bites and beverage tasting from distilleries and breweries included.

AUGUST 27, 2026

Tails, Tunes & Tastes

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road cmzoo.org/events-programs/ special-events/tails-tunes-tastes Don’t miss this 21-and-up evening of unlimited small plates, drinks, live music and your favorite animals on the mountain. Advance tickets required for this afterhours experience. Includes unlimited small plates and two drinks. The historic carousel and Mountaineer Sky Ride will be open, as well as a drone light show.

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Pawtoberfest is one of Colorado’s ONLY dog-friendly festivals, featuring a craft brews and spirits tasting, pet contests, activities for the whole family and plenty of scrumptious food from local food trucks!

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