THERE F
O R PRA
CTI CALLY EVE
R Y “EUREKA” M O MENT FOR T H E PA S T 100 YEA RS.
When you’ve been around for 100 years, you’ve been around for a lot of “eureka!” moments, countless “aha!” moments, and more revelations and realizations than you can remember. From the joyous celebrations to the quiet reflections, we’ve illuminated the path every step of the way. Our commitment extends beyond merely providing electricity; it’s about being there for the milestones, the challenges and the everyday triumphs that make up a century of shared experiences. That’s a Century of Service. And that’s worth celebrating.
WE HAVE THE BRANDS YOU’RE LOOKING FOR!
No furniture store in Colorado has the collection of the Brand Names you’re looking for in one place, than American Furniture Galleries!
From our family owned and operated quality leaders like BERNHARDT, CENTURY, HANCOCK AND MOORE, to our worldwide fashion leather leaders like STRESSLESS and NATUZZI LEATHER, we are proud to be your local gallery. With this selection of world famous brands, our guaranteed low price policy, over 103 years of serving the Colorado Springs area, shop us today and let us earn your business!
AMERICAN FURNITURE GALLERIES....FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE!
LEXINGTON AMERICAN LEATHER
HOOKER
BASSETT
Warm air greets you as you unwind in the soothing water of your own, personal spa. Gently oscillating jets massage your tired muscles while you melt into the moment. Cheers your favorite beverages with those closest to you, and unwind in pure rejuvenation. Experience all of this in the comfort of your backyard oasis. With Arctic Spas®, it's time to turn this summer dream into your reality.
We Build Legacies with Heart.
Since 1983 we’ve been creating havens that reflect what is most important to our homeownersa one-of-a-kind representation of their legacy, filled with thousands of tiny details. At Comito Design | Build, we believe in the details because we don’t just love what we build - we LOVE building it.
Let us build your legacy.
Managing Partners: Lauren Comito-Perrault and Nate Banet
Explore
Before becoming a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, Colorado Springs was an untamed land, explored by adventurers who braved harsh conditions, navigated rugged terrain and documented their journeys.
In 1806, a young Army officer named Zebulon Pike led an expedition to explore the southwestern part of the Louisiana Purchase. Although Pike never summited the mountain that now bears his name, his descriptions of the towering peak, which he deemed "unclimbable," captivated imaginations.
Following in Pike's footsteps, Maj. Stephen Harriman Long, Christopher Houston "Kit" Carson, John C. Frémont and others continued exploring and documenting this land. The discovery of gold in 1858-59, frequently referred to as the Pikes Peak Gold Rush, brought a surge of prospectors to the region. Towns sprang up overnight and the once-remote region became a bustling hub. When the prospectors eventually moved on, the infrastructure they left behind laid the foundation for the Springs’ future growth.
Today, as we hike the Incline, wander through Old Colorado City, or explore the many natural wonders of Colorado Springs, we are following in the footsteps of these pioneering adventurers.
This issue is dedicated to exploring.
Learn about a bicycle resort right here in the Pikes Peak region and a 110-acre ranch about 25 miles from Woodland Park.
Read about a third-generation hat shaper taking the craft to new heights and a couple who has merged their respective love of woodworking and design into beautiful, functional pieces of art.
Get the details on the festivities surrounding the Paris Summer Olympics right here in Olympic City USA and read about a business offering the perfect "walk and eat" street food. Oh... and make sure to check out our events calendar for info on all the Fourth of July options around town.
Finally, learn how you can shop, golf, eat, drink and bid on fabulous items—all for a good cause.
Thanks for reading and Happy July from the team at Colorado Springs Lifestyle!
ASHLEY HAMERSHOCK, EDITOR
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Scott Barr | scott.barr@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Stephanie Barr | stephanie.barr@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Ashley Hamershock ashley.hamershock@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Cara Bukacek | coloradosprings@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ashley Hamershock, Rochelle Reeder, Lindsay Tallman, Cara Bukacek, Kristian DePue
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mallory Munson Photography, Mado Photography, Beyond Me Photography. Denunzio s Photography, Meredith Diamond Photography, Jensen Sutta Photography, Parker Thomas Custom Hats, Jason O'Rear, Nic Lehoux, Richard Bittles, Ryan Kost, Kyle Hageman, Devin Richter, Sunchaser Studios, 4th Avenue Crepes, Buffalo Bicycle Lodge, Wood High Mountain Distillery
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
GET HAPPY AT JAX
Countless friendships and love connections have been made at Happy Hour at Jax. Over chilled oysters and bubbly champagne, peel n' eat shrimp and an ice-cold beer, or the endless other combinations. We've so many stories we could tell, but we’d never tell a one.
Come get happy with us.
SUMMER MADE EASY
SIP / SAVOR / SPA / SWIM
Summertime made easy with Heritage Hotels & Resorts. Visit HHandR.com to make your reservations today.
THE ULTIMATE ACCESSORY
Third-Generation Hat Shaper Parker Thomas Carries on a Family Legacy
Historically, the hat has been the ultimate accessory. Whether serving a functional purpose or expressing status, it has unarguably become known as a form of self-expression. Indiana Jones’ brown fedora, Charlie Chaplain’s bowler, Sherlock Holmes’ deerstalker, Jack Sparrow’s
tricorne are all iconic hats in cinema that helped their wearers portray a specific character. In the same vein, Winston Churchill’s Homburg, Abraham Lincoln’s stovepipe, Davy Crockett’s coonskin cap and Jackie Kennedy’s pillbox hat have all made their way into the history books.
ARTICLE BY ROCHELLE REEDER
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
PARKER THOMAS, MEREDITH DIAMOND PHOTOGRAPHY, JENSEN SUTTA
Hats also have an important place in the workspace. A chef wears a toque, a ship captain wears a peaked cap, a train conductor is known for his blue-and-white striped engineer’s cap, and a ranch worker wears a cowboy hat.
CRAFTSMANSHIP + LEGACY
Today, many of these hats, as well as a number of others, have become staples of fashion as well as function. As fast-fashion has served a generation focused on instant gratification, it has obscured the overall craftsmanship that used to be a staple surrounding these accessories.
Parker Thomas is a third-generation hat shaper who apprenticed under his grandfather and father.
Hat shaping was not Thomas’s anticipated profession of choice, initially. His post-graduate plans changed and then after his grandfather passed away, he was left to evaluate the importance of carrying on the legacy and the trade.
Hats by Parker Thomas was established in 2021 and employs a small team of fewer than ten people. They staff two brick-and-mortar locations as well as a mobile truck to take the entire operation on the road for private events.
A hatmaker was originally referred to as a milliner. The name was used to describe a resident of Milan, Italy, who crafted bespoke headpieces. Their goal was to create the right accessory, specific to their client in fit and feature, to adequately articulate their status and personal expression.
OLD TRADE, MADE NEW
Thomas has taken a generations-old trade and brought it into the 21st century.
He starts with high-quality hats – no fast-fashion here; these hats are chosen for their durability. The team helps clients choose hats that fit based on face shape, coloring, comfortability and personal style. Then, the hat is personally fitted to each client using special foam and a steamer. Once the foundation is set, the customization begins.
Thomas’s most notable departure from traditional hat shaping is his ability to shape the crowns of each hat. In addition to “The Cattleman,” he is able to craft letters, pictures and other unique shapes into the crown of the hat, giving true meaning to craftsmanship and customization. Clients are able to add hat bands, pins, stitches and other accoutrements to further customize their choices. Lastly, custom burning and branding gives that overall weathered look to finish the piece off and make it truly one-of-a-kind.
Thomas and his team deal in quality and legacy by providing a unique experience and tangible memories.
The urban cowboy is alive and well and his name is Parker Thomas.
Website: https://www.hatsbyparkerthomas.com/
Facebook: @HatsByParkerThomas
PHOTOGRAPHY
WEDDINGS
CORPORATE
PRIVATE FRIEND GROUPS
RODEOS
CHARITY
GRADUATION PARTIES & ANYTHING ELSE YOU CAN DREAM UP!
Stay Where You Want To Play
Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort: More Than Just a Place To Lay Your Head
Nestled amongst the trees on just over four acres of land is one of the most unique resort properties in Colorado. Just a mile from the Garden of the Gods, guests can literally bike in and bike out to various local tourist attractions.
Built in 1919, Buffalo Lodge was originally designated for hunters. In the 1930s, cottages were added and the property was heralded as “Colorado’s Most Modern Cottage City.” Present day, there are 47 cottages of all sizes to accommodate groups from singles to large families.
HAPPENSTANCE
In 2006, a woman named Torie Giffin was riding her bike near the lodge and experienced a flat tire. While she was waiting for a ride, she looked up at the lodge and realized she never even knew it was there until that day.
“It was tucked back into the trees in an area that I hadn’t explored up until that point,” Giffen says. “I saw the building and thought it was really cool.”
ARTICLE BY CARA BUKACEK PHOTOGRAPHY BY BUFFALO LODGE
Fast forward 10 years, Giffen had a dream about a hotel for cyclists. There was nothing around that catered to cyclists who traveled with their bikes. Shortly after the dream, Giffen returned to the Buffalo Lodge and approached the front desk. She told them that if they ever decided to sell the property, that she was interested in buying it. As fate would have it, the lodge was already for sale as a “redevelopment property.”
REALIZING A VISION
In almost a century as working hotel, the property had fallen into disrepair. Giffen, an avid cyclist, dreamed of restoring it and giving it a new life as a bicycle resort. She reached out to family and investors and purchased the property in 2016.
In eight years, 100 percent of the profits have been rolled back into lodge to fix plumbing, update electrical service, replace cottage roofs, restore the pool/deck, update rooms, create event spaces, restore the sign, purchase bike-themed décor, create a glamping area and restore the main lodge.
Each of the 47 cottages has its own bike-themed character, complete with an indoor hanging bike rack for storage. Each room has a minimum of a mini-fridge and a microwave; the larger units also have stoves and apartment refrigerators.
“We have done so much in the last eight years, but we are still not done,” Giffen says. “We appreciate that most of our guests are able to look past the peeling stucco and know that we are committed to providing an exceptional experience during their stay.”
THE AMENITIES
What makes the bicycle resort truly special are the amenities and ongoing events.
GUESTS ARE TREATED TO THE FOLLOWING:
• Heated outdoor pool (May – October)
• Large outdoor patio complete with gas firepits (may be rented for private events)
• Laundry facilities
• Free continental breakfast and coffee bar
• Three-speed commuter bikes with helmets and locks (free)
• Large pavilion area for outdoor gatherings (may be rented for private events)
• Guided biking and hiking tours
• Five dog-friendly rooms
AVAILABLE TO GUESTS AND THE PUBLIC:
• Daily/weekly events
• Live music – 5 nights/week from 6-8pm
• Bar stocked with Colorado beers and spirits; daily happy hour – 4-6pm
• Electric bike rentals
• Urban market (Thursdays during summer)
“Our lodge is an attraction in itself,” Giffin says. “We provide many entertainment options and resort-level amenities and activities. While we cater to cyclists, we welcome all to come and stay with us!”
GLAMPING AREA
One of the newest additions to the resort is the glamping area. There are four 130-square-foot safari tents, each furnished with a Yeti cooler, bed, nightstands, and comfortable seating. Each tent has an attached porch with lawn furniture adding 70 additional square feet of outdoor space.
The adjacent outdoor area is exclusive to the glamping guests and includes fire pits, BBQ grills, lawn games and a covered patio with tables.
This is a great option for those with a smaller lodging budget or a taste for a more rustic experience.
MORE INFORMATION
The Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort is always creating events for both their guests and the general public. They even host a podcast called Peddle the Springs, which covers local bike-related content.
Website: https://www.bicycleresort.com/ Facebook & Instagram: @BuffaloLodgeBicyleResort
FISHRULE STUDIOS CREATES BEAUTY OUT OF WOOD
Balancing Craft and Design
ARTICLE BY LINDSAY TALLMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KYLE HAGEMAN
“
Hageman says the thing he loves most about running the business is the act of creation. He loves the act of
“making something with your hands that is going to live beyond you in terms of space or time.”
Kyle Hageman and Heather Horton are partners in life and in business. As married co-owners of FishRule Studios, a woodworking company that creates high-quality products for the kitchen and home, Hageman and Horton bring a wonderful balance of craft and design to their products.
In 2015, they seized an opportunity to create a business based on his love for woodworking and her interest in art and design. What sets FishRule Studios apart is their commitment to combining different types of wood in a way that makes each design unique. With their emphasis on precision and fine details, the finished products serve as functional art.
Horton says, “I grew up in a household where my parents were art collectors and I’ve always just been really interested in art and design.”
Hageman has been a woodworking hobbyist for most of his adult life and brings a dedication to the creative process and an ability to be super precise in order to make high-quality items. In the past, Horton would design the item and Hageman was responsible for finding a way to create it. But now, both of them are capable of making things in the shop. They find joy in the creative process and the final result of creating beautiful things that others can enjoy.
A MERGING OF FUNCTION AND BEAUTY
Their bread cutting board is a great example of their emphasis on beauty and function. The cutting board has slots cut into the top and a tray on the bottom to catch bread crumbs. The wall lights called illuminated wall art are another product that combines aesthetics with practicality. Horton creates the handmade panel design out of translucent polymer clay and Hageman
crafts the wood and mounts the LED light inside. The finished product provides ambiance and doubles as a light and an abstract work of art.
Their best-selling product is the cheese slicer. Although similar products can be purchased from retail stores, theirs is handmade and unique. The couple believes that surrounding yourself with beautiful things can elevate your life.
Hageman says the thing he loves most about running the business is the act of creation. He loves the act of “making something with your hands that is going to live beyond you in terms of space or time.”
The woods they use are all natural colors and they are always looking to see how they can emphasize the beauty. They believe part of their job is to find out what a piece of wood best lends itself to in terms of design and function.
Hageman and Horton say they are passionate about social justice, inclusion and the environment. They are always thinking about universal design and how people will interact with an item, including ease of use for people that have different ways of engaging with the world. They are committed to reusing materials to avoid waste and they love incorporating beetle killed pine in their products and sourcing woods from local wood sellers whenever they can.
Horton sums it up by saying that their dream is to be able to really grow this business and continue to find joy in making things. They are currently very excited about expanding their passion for Tiki culture and they hope to bring some of the things they’ve created for themselves to market in the near future.
Website: https://www.fishrulestudios.com/ Facebook + Instagram: @FishRuleStudios
AN ENCHANTED WEEKEND
Goodwill of Colorado: Taking Giving to New Heights
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HAMERSHOCK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEVIN RICHTER & SUNCHASER STUDIOS
In the heart of the Front Range, Goodwill of Colorado is gearing up for its eighth annual fundraising extravaganza: An Enchanted Weekend. From chic fashion finds to swinging clubs on the green, from Napa-style tastings to a virtual auction, this weekend promises a blend of elegance, fun, and above all... generosity.
“It’s a really wonderful event." -Alison McGilchrist, Vice President of Marketing and Development, Goodwill of
Colorado
Here's a sneak peek at what awaits attendees August 15-17 at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club:
CHIC BOUTIQUE: WHERE FASHION MEETS PHILANTHROPY
Kicking off the weekend in style is the Chic Boutique—an oasis for fashion aficionados and bargain hunters alike. Guests can browse racks of designer labels and vintage gems, while supporting Goodwill’s programs for women with economic disadvantages.
From timeless classics to cutting-edge trends, there's something for every taste and budget.
“It’s such a beautiful, elevated experience” with new items each of the three days, says Stephanie Bell, Brand & Buzz Manager for Goodwill of Colorado. “It’s highly curated.”
In fact, the Goodwill retail locations keep an eye out yearround for treasures to stow away for the Chic Boutique. It’s not unusual to find Prada, Gucci and other luxury items at this event, says Alison McGilchrist, vice president of marketing and development for Goodwill of Colorado.
“It’s such a fun, fun experience,” McGilchrist says. “It’s such a kick.”
The Chic Boutique runs all three days at The Three Graces at Strata Integrated Wellness and Spa. Thursday evening will feature a ticketed, VIP opening reception with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Friday and Saturday, the boutique is open to the public and stock will be continually replenished with fun finds. And with each purchase, attendees not only boost their wardrobes, but also contribute to the countless lives transformed by Goodwill's programs.
GOLF TOURNAMENT: TEEING UP FOR A CAUSE
For those with a passion for the fairways, the golf tournament promises a day of friendly competition and stunning views. This year, 34 foursomes will gather for a day at Kissing Camels Golf Course.
“We have a wait list,” McGilchrist says. “It’s just so wellloved. We have many, many repeat sponsors. It’s more of a golf experience. We really honor the people who play golf with us.”
“It’s just so well-loved. We have many, many repeat sponsors. It’s more of a golf experience. We really honor the people who play golf with us.”
Think giveaways, gourmet food and beverages and more. And bonus: every birdie and bogey contributes to building brighter futures.
ON THE MESA: AN EVENING OF ENCHANTMENT
Foodie? There’s an event for you, too.
Buy tickets, then head to the lawn overlooking the Garden of the Gods on Friday evening for an outdoor, Napa-style tasting event with delicious food and beverages—all donated. The list of restaurants hosting these tasting stations— food, dessert, beer, wine and spirits—reads like a who’s who of the Springs’ finest. Seriously. Check out the list online.
Live music will round out the evening.
“It’s a really wonderful event,” McGilchrist says.
VIRTUAL
AUCTION: BRINGING HOPE TO YOUR DOORSTEP
Don’t forget about the virtual auction, an opportunity to place bids on things like bottles of wine, travel getaways, sports tickets and more. The auction typically goes live about a week before the in-person events.
McGilchrist and Bell stress that Goodwill of Colorado doesn’t collect money here and send it elsewhere. The dollars they raise stay here in the local community, offering career development and life-skills training to various groups, including veterans, seniors, youth, and those facing barriers to employment.
Websites: https://www.anenchantedweekend.com and https://goodwillcolorado.org
Facebook + Instagram: @GoodwillColorado
chic bou tique
You are Invited!
Goodwill of Colorado’s Chic Boutique is returning to Garden of the Gods Resort & Club Shop our high-end pop-up boutique featuring items donated from our community, supporting Goodwill’s education and employment programs. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. August 16 and 17 3314 Mesa Road
Your generous donations of gently-used clothing and household items help nearly 150,000 Coloradans each year overcome significant obstacles on their path to independence and dignity. Learn more here.
ARTICLE BY CARA BUKACEK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MALLORY MUNSON PHOTOGRAPHY, MADO PHOTOGRAPHY, BEYOND ME PHOTOGRAPHY, DENUNZIO S PHOTOGRAPHY
Colorado Heaven 110-Acre Slice of
PIKES PEAK RANCH: PROVIDING A SPACE FOR INTENTIONAL GATHERING
Jack and Mariah Hoesley met in 2015 at the University of Colorado. For many years, they maintained a close friendship and eventually became a couple. They discovered over time that their dreams, aspirations, and goals in life were very much aligned.
THE GUIDING PHILOSOPHY
They both believe in the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai. It is a concept referring to a person’s sense of purpose, a reason for living. This philosophy involves the intersection of four qualities:
• What you love
• What you’re good at
• What you can be paid for
• What the world needs
According to this philosophy, when you find a career that includes these four parts, you have found your dream career.
When Mariah was young, she and her family experienced a place a of healing. Her family was going through a tough personal time when they decided to attend a music festival in Oregon. The resort where they stayed was transformational. She dreamed of one day creating a similar space for others to experience.
When Mariah shared her childhood experience with Jack, they both realized that this could be their Ikigai.
CONTINUED >
PIKES PEAK RANCH
After months of searching for a property to call their own, they found Pikes Peak Ranch. Located on 110 acres in the Rocky Mountains, 25 miles from Woodland Park, Pikes Peak Ranch is a perfect slice of Colorado heaven. It came with five luxury cabins, a large event space and ample mountain views.
The ranch is a space meant for intentional gatherings. The cabins are located across the vast property, allowing full privacy for the occupants. They are available to rent year round and each one offers something different and special. They can be rented together for a large gathering, or separately depending on your specific needs.
The 2,700-square-foot event building includes a full kitchen, bathrooms and space for a band. This venue can be rented for weddings, family reunions, corporate gatherings and retreats. It’s a blank canvas, decorated in warm neutral colors to seamlessly blend with the design of any event.
Along with the event space, the Hoesleys also provide a vetted vendor list to help with event planning. They have done the research so their guests can choose what they want and then simply focus on their special day or vacation.
“We want our guests to feel like this is a space for everyone,” Mariah says. “It is an honor for us to provide the ranch for someone’s special day or vacation. We want you to unplug, relax, and leave feeling nourished and rested. We did our best to create packages to fit all budgets.”
Website: https://pikespeakranch.com/ Facebook + Instagram: @PikesPeakRanch
CELEBRATE THE OLYMPICS + PARALYMPICS
ARTICLE BY ROCHELLE REEDER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON O'REAR, NIC LEHOUX, RICHARD BITTLES &
We are Olympic City USA.
Colorado Springs has the unique opportunity to host the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Center, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, more than two dozen National Governing Bodies and Paralympic Sport organizations, and most recently, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum (USOPM). We have Olympians and their coaches, teammates and their families hiking the same trails and shopping among us at our grocery stores. Most of these athletes train from early childhood and they
and their families make sacrifices for the sport that many would have trouble quantifying.
The first hurdle is the national stage. A win there means opportunity to compete at the highest of their level and represent not only their family or their state, but also their country, on the world stage. This honor only comes every four years and the competition is fierce.
This summer, the Olympics will be held in Paris, France. Much like the athletes, the staff at the USOPM has been feverishly preparing for this year's summer
RYAN KOST
Block Party, Athlete Meet and Greets, Sports Clinics and More this Summer at the Colorado Springs Olympic and Paralympic Museum
games by getting ready to host activities that let Olympic enthusiasts come together and cheer for our athletes and our country in a communal setting.
USOPM'S PARIS SUMMER FEST CELEBRATION
It's called USOPM’s Paris Summer Fest Celebration and the festivities will begin with a big block party on Saturday, July 27, 2024 in downtown Colorado Springs. The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation, and the Downtown Partnership have all teamed up to make this free outdoor event possible. The kick-off event will include an Official Torch Relay, athlete meet-and-greets, live Paris game coverage on a large outdoor screen, live music, sport demonstrations,
CONTINUED >
a basketball clinic (ages 6-17) hosted by USA Basketball, as well as several other visually dynamic performances.
The rest of the summer series will include more outdoor events to watch the games live. There will be live broadcasting of the games on televisions throughout the museum as well, including at the Flame Café which boasts magnificent views in addition to great food. The Curator Collection will gear up to showcase items and special artifacts through themed programs during the summer, and there will be an Olympian or Paralympian on site every day, doing meet and greets with visitors.
YEAR-ROUND EXPERIENCES
Marisa Wigglesworth joined the executive team at the USOPM a year ago with a distinguished background in the museum and attraction industry. She grew up with parents who were educators and valued experiences over things for Wigglesworth. To this day, she notes that being
in a museum feels like home. As CEO at the USOPM, her goal is to increase programming opportunities for museum-goers but also specifically for residents and families who call Colorado Springs home. As they build out these programs and exhibits, they will be updating the online schedules to reflect the new offerings. Wigglesworth indicates that this will also help the USOPM take its rightful place on the national stage and give the Olympians and Paralympians the honor they deserve.
If ever there was a time to be a museum member, this is it. Members enjoy year-round access to the facility, which would ensure access to each of these unique events over the summer at no additional cost. Visit usopm.org to become a member and stay up-to-date on all of the Summer Olympic programming that will be unveiled this season.
Website: https://usopm.org/ Facebook + Instagram: @USOPMuseum
PLAY HARD rest
Claim your home-away-from-home with a Garden of the Gods Club Membership. Choose a membership category fit just for your lifestyle. Enjoy world-class activities, amenities, social calendar of events and parties, luxury accommodations, and countless other exclusive benefits.
Explore membership today with a free tour. Call 719.520.4980 or email us at membership@gardenofthegodsresort.com
gardenofthegodsresort.com
Strata Med’s concierge approach to health shifts your goals from treating symptoms, to a comprehensive path towards whole body healing. Our team of skilled practitioners are here to help you reach your wellness goals through a personalized treatment plan, integrating Eastern and Western medicine.
THE PERFECT “WALK & EAT” STREET FOOD
Amy Balagot has worked in the culinary industry for more than two decades and has loved every minute of it. Her passion led to a pastry instructor position at Pikes Peak State College as well as educating high school students through a program called Career Start.
“Teaching young people to cook and introducing them to a potential career has been one of my favorite experiences in this field,” Balagot says.
While Balagot loves teaching, she began to miss the community connection of creating and
4th Avenue Crepes:
Spreading Joy, One Crepe at a Time
serving food to the public. She also began thinking about a potential business that could allow her to spend more time with her daughters.
A FAMILY AFFAIR
A food truck seemed like the perfect fit for her family. After some discussion, the family decided that crepes were the perfect walk and eat street food. The food is self-contained, easy to hold, requires no utensils, and is a blank canvas for both savory and sweet fillings.
ARTICLE BY CARA BUKACEK
“The name of our business came from the street I grew up on in California. The motto of our business is Spread Joy, Eat Crepes because making people smile is our “why,” Balagot says.
Balagot’s eldest daughter, Mak Boyer, is the CEO of the business and is responsible for their social media content as well as helping out on the food truck. Balagot’s younger daughter, Abby, works the register and assists with food prep and distribution.
GIRL POWER
The ladies are proud to be a woman-owned and operated business. As a family and a team, they are determined to be self-sufficient. In fact, when asked what they are most proud of, they responded, “Learning to hook up, tow, back-up, and park the food truck… all by ourselves!”
THE EVER-EVOLVING MENU
The menu at 4th Avenue Crepes is always evolving as they discover what people like. Their top sellers include the Rocky Mountain Avalanche and pizza crepes, but they have received amazing feedback on all of their menu items. One thing that sets their food truck apart is that they welcome special orders.
“We invite creativity. As long as we have the ingredients, we will make it happen!” Boyer says.
SERVING OTHERS AND GIVING BACK
The family’s faith is also a motivating factor behind their business. The act of serving others is central to their beliefs and giving back to the community is just one way that they show their community love.
4th Avenue Crepes has proudly supported and donated proceeds to help out The Ronald McDonald House, Bald 4 Bucks, and Riders 4 Children. These partnerships have given their business an altruistic purpose and they are always on the lookout for additional causes and organizations to support.
Linktree, Facebook, TikTok, Instagram: @4thavenuecrepes
2024–25 Theatre Season
In a shaker, muddle 4-6 mint leaves with 1/2 oz simple syrup. Fill shaker with ice and add:
• 1 1/2 oz Wood's High Mountain Distillery Treeline Gin
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• Shake well and strain into either a coupe glass to drink neat, or a low-ball with ice for a summer refresher
• Garnish with sprig of fresh mint and a lemon wheel
Wood’s High Mountain Distillery was founded with the goal to bottle their passion for outdoor adventures into spirits that shine with the essence of the mountains of Colorado. Enjoy a cocktail or dram of our spirits and celebrate a little high mountain life.
Al Fr es co STYLE
Spending time outdoors and enjoying friends and family over good food and drinks is a great way to enjoy the season’s beautiful weather. From the fresh flower arrangements, produce, and herbs, this earthy spread is brimming with character and flavor. The earthy ceramic and clay vases give the perfect vessel to fill with organic cut herbs and handpicked wildflowers. We arranged a beautiful medley of Queen Anne’s lace, mint, sage, rosemary, lavender, lamb’s ear, nigella, buddleia, oregano, dill, feverfew, and geranium to name just a few of these beautiful blooms. We love a good home-cooked menu mixed with a signature drink, so we paired our meal with a delicious craft cocktail. Buttermilk brined fried chicken was a must for this outdoor party. A delicious peach bread pudding with salted vanilla caramel cream rounded out our meal for the perfect sweet treat. We wanted to share a few of our favorite recipes for you to try at home. Enjoy!
FARM-TO-TABLE ENTERTAINING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL VERSLUIS
Buttermilk Brined Fried Chicken
INGREDIENTS:
Dried spice mix
• 2 tablespoons white pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 5 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons fresh black pepper
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons cayenne
• 1 teaspoon celery salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4 teaspoons onion powder
• Palm kosher salt
Buttermilk Brine
• 4 cups buttermilk
• 1 bunch fresh sage
• 1/2 of spice mixture
Dredge
• 2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• Whole cut up chicken or 2 bone-in breasts, 2 thighs and 2 drumsticks
To cook
• 4 cups shortening
INSTRUCTIONS:
Marinate chicken in brine for up to 24 hours. Place chicken in large Ziploc bag and pour marinade over top. Add fresh sage and store in fridge. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a baking rack with a sheet pan for raw chicken and one for cooked chicken. Add remaining spice mixture to flour mixture. Whisk together well. Heat shortening to 350 degrees. (Preference is cast iron Dutch oven) Pull chicken out of buttermilk mixture and let drip. Coat firmly in flour mixture and set on raw chicken rack. Complete each piece of chicken. Heat oil to 350 degrees. Place 2 or 3 pieces of chicken in oil and cook 3-5 minutes per side. Place on cooked chicken rack. Put cooked chicken in oven to complete cooking for 15 minutes. Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving! CONTINUED >
Peach Bread Pudding
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 loaf brioche
• 5 fresh peaches
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 eggs
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes. Dice peaches into medium dice. Place peaches, white sugar, and butter in saucepan. Cook until sugar is dissolved and peaches are soft. Mix all other ingredients together. Spray a 9x13-inch baking pan and add peach mixture with brioche pieces and then add milk mixture. Bake for 45 minutes. Let cool for 20 minutes before cutting.
El Ahumado
“Spanish for Smoky”
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 ounces Reposado tequila
• 1/2 ounce aperol
• 3/4 ounce lime juice
• 1/2 ounce agave nectar
• 1/4 ounces luxardo cherry syrup
• 1 spritz of Mezcal
INSTRUCTIONS:
Lightly sweet, pleasantly bitter. The Mezcal adds just a hint of smoke to make a beautifully balanced, interesting cocktail.
Imagine a place where the past opens a window to another world. Take a chance on adventure.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 1ST
Green Box Arts Festival
Green Mountain Falls | 9:00 AM
The 16th Annual Green Box Arts Festival is scheduled to take place from July 1-14 with an impressive lineup featuring multiple dance companies and musicians, Pulitzer Prize-winning authors, captivating art installations, and a wealth of other classes and events. https://greenboxarts.org/
JULY 2ND
Paint the Town Blue
Bancroft Park Stage | 5:30 PM
Pikes Peak Blues Community is sponsoring its free public PAINT THE TOWN BLUE concert series featuring blues and American roots music at 5:30 pm at Bancroft Park Stage, Old Colorado City. https://pikespkblues.org/
• July 2... Cous and the Brotherhood
• July 16... Tasty House
• July 30... Austin Johnson
• August 13.. King Stan Band
• Sept. 24... Stone Fish.
JULY 4TH
Star Spangled Symphony + Fourth of July Fireworks
Pikes Peak Center + Around the Region | 4:30 PM
Celebrate Independence Day with a free concert by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic. Gather in the comfort of the Pikes Peak Center to hear patriotic favorites. Free; first-come first-served. Community fireworks displays in more than 10 locations. The Symphony will be broadcast on five local radio stations. Live streaming of the fireworks will start at 9:15 pm on KKTV’s website. https://www.coloradospringssports.org/events/4th-of-july/
JULY 4TH
Family Fourth
Rock Ledge Ranch | 10:00 AM
Bring your family and celebrate the Fourth of July, Rock Ledge style. Listen to historic music and a dulcimer band. Play carnival games and learn how to play “Chicken Bingo.” Take a wagon ride around the Ranch. Enjoy delicious gelato or perhaps participate in a pie-eating contest. Witness historic speeches, as well. There’s something fun for the whole family all day long! https://rockledgeranch.com/event/family-fourth-3/
JULY 4TH
Fourth of July Street Fair and Beer Garden
Downtown Monument | 7:00 AM
The Tri-Lakes 4th of July celebration kicks off with a pancake breakfast at 7 am. A four-mile fun run starts at 7 am at the Palmer Lake Santa Fe Trailhead and ends in Monument, where the children's parade begins at 9:30 am, followed by the main parade. A family-friendly beer garden with live music runs from 10 am-5 pm in Limbach Park. https://www.trilakeschamber.com/4th-of-july-street-fair-and-beer-garden.html
JULY 6TH
Pikes Peak or Bust Parade + Rodeo
Downtown Colorado Springs | 10:00 AM
The Pikes Peak or Bust Parade is back! The parade will mosey south along Tejon Street, from St. Vrain to Vermijo! So gather your cowboy hat, that plaid shirt, your best jeans and boots, and celebrate the theme: Bronco Days. The parade is part of the lead up to the rodeo, which takes place from July 9-13. https://www.pikespeakorbust.org/
JULY 7TH
An Evening with Suzy Bogguss
Boot Barn Hall | 7:00 PM
In the 1990s, Suzy Bogguss sold four million records with country hits like “Outbound Plane” and “Someday Soon.” She made an album with Chet Atkins and later created modern swing music with Ray Benson of Asleep at the Wheel. A 2007 album landed her at number four on the jazz charts and her latest, Prayin’ For Sunshine, has all songs written by Bogguss. https://www.bootbarnhallco.com/
JULY 13TH
Emperor of the Moon
ENT Center for the Arts | 7:00 PM
When the eccentric Doctor Baliardo grows convinced of an advanced society on the moon, he insists that his daughters accept no earthly suitors and instead hold out for— you guessed it—moon-men. Full of shenanigans and devoid of redeeming social value, Emperor of the Moon rounds out the season with joy and hilarity. Runs at various times throughout the month. https://tickets.entcenterforthearts.org/4081/4111
JULY 16TH
Manitou Chamber Music Festival
Chapel of Our Saviour | 7:30 PM
The Manitou Chamber Music Festival proudly announces its 11th season, set for the last two weeks of July. This year's performances will feature composers from all eras. The festival kicks off with a concert themed "Nature," including pieces by Haydn, Schubert, and Sculthorpe. The second concert features an all-Prokofiev program. The third concert is "Individual Artistry” and the final is a "Gala Concert.” https://www.manitouchambermusicfestival.com/
JULY 18TH
Taste of Pikes Peak
Downtown Colorado Springs | 5:00 PM
In its 27th year, Taste of Pikes Peak remains dedicated to its mission: uniting restaurants, beverage suppliers, and foodie enthusiasts to celebrate the vibrant culinary landscape of the Pikes Peak Region. The event is not just about savoring incredible flavors of more than 90 tastes from restaurants, breweries and distilleries in the region, but also about giving back to the community. https://www.tasteofpikespeak.com/
JULY 19TH
Jason Aldean
Weidner Field | 5:00 PM
After successful years of concert lineups that featured headline acts AJR, Cody Johnson, Sam Hunt, Justin Moore, Old Dominion, and Incubus, Switchbacks Entertainment is excited to announce Jason Aldean as the first headline artist of its 2024 concert series at Weidner Field. Aldean has 27 number-one singles, 15 billion streams, and more than 20 million albums sold. https://www.switchbacksfc.com/ jason-aldean-in-concert/
JULY 27TH
Downtown Summer Fest
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum | 11:00 AM
Don’t miss Downtown Summer Fest, an Olympic kickoff event, starting with the Rocky Mountain 5K. After the race, cross Park Union Bridge to the museum for the Paris Olympics kickoff, featuring sports and cultural demonstrations, live music, and extensive community engagement with 40-plus partners and vendors. Watch Olympic & Paralympic competition on the big screen in the Museum Plaza. https://www.coloradospringssports.org/events/summer-fest/
DIY VANILLA ORANGE SUGAR SCRUB
Create your own DIY sugar scrub for a perfect gift for a special person in your life.
To make one 8 ounce mason jar of vanilla orange sugar scrub, you need:
• 1/4 cup of coconut oil
• 3/4 cup of sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 10 drops of orange essential oil
Soften the coconut oil in the microwave for a few seconds. Next add the vanilla extract and the orange essential oil. Then, stir in the sugar, a little at a time. Print off a fun label or attach a ribbon to the jar, and your gift is ready. Enjoy!
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917 Motor City Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80905
719-219-1911
PorscheColoradoSprings.com