Colorado Springs, CO May 2026

A LUXURIOUS ESCAPE

J U L I E K A Y D E S I G N S T U D I O + S t o r e f r o n t

Spring has Colorado Springs name written all over it. After the adventure, settle into the Mining Exchange to dream up what you’ll seek out tomorrow. Our completely reimagined 128-room hotel is a tribute to the wild souls who carved hope and prosperity out of the mountains. Relax, reflect, revel. Come in for coffee at BLK MGK. Stay for Jazz Thursdays at Golden Hour. Tuck into a meal at Oro. Dig in. This is the place.

A 124-year foundation. A STRONG COMMITMENT TO COLORADO.

Founded more than a century ago in Jefferson City, Missouri, Central Bank brought its proven approach to Colorado in 2017—supporting local businesses, families, and communities with the same care we’ve always delivered.

Stop by and see how you can Dream Bigger. Bank Better.

GREENWOOD VILLAGE | WESTMINSTER | COLORADO SPRINGS | DURANGO | LITTLETON

OPENING IN MAY! Downtown Littleton Branch

Our 5th Colorado location is opening soon in the heart of Downtown Littleton! Stop by once we open to explore all Central Bank has to offer.

A micro docuseries featuring our customer’s stories from the far m.

Watch the trailer using the QR code and follow along in the series.

Ladies

Ladies of the Pikes Peak Region... in this issue, we salute you!

Strong.

Smart.

Real.

Colorado Springs is home to a wonderfully diverse population of women—military members and spouses, leaders in business and education and nonprofit, stay-at-home moms, retirees, volunteers and so many others. Each of you enrich our community in countless ways.

The best part? Everywhere I go, I see women supporting other women. I hear honest conversations about challenges such as motherhood, careers and identity that are creating empathy instead of judgment.

I see women-owned businesses intentionally partnering with and promoting one another and informal support networks—coffee meetups, hiking groups, and coworking circles—turning into powerful spaces for encouragement, mentorship and friendship. I see women celebrating each other's wins publicly, cultivating an atmosphere of friendly competition and genuine collaboration.

It's the simple realization that we are better together.

It's beautiful.

Dive into this issue for a great lineup of relevant articles!

We have two stories about local artists—one who creates jewelry with complex techniques like acid etching, and another who paints stunning murals around the city—and a third story about an aerial silks studio where performers use suspended fabric to climb, pose and "dance" in the air.

Read about a Mexican restaurant that will have you feeling as if you're at a vacation on the beach, a Manitou Springs hotel fully embracing the local spirit of adventure, and business offering "sound baths" designed to immerse participants in a meditative experience guided by vibration and tone.

Learn about a meaningful transformation at a financing cooperative that focuses on providing credit to farmers, ranchers and rural residents in Southern Colorado.

And finally... get the scoop on what a beloved penny arcade's new owner is planning for the future.

Happy Spring, dear readers. We appreciate you!  ASHLEY

HAMERSHOCK, EDITOR

May 2026

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

Jacey Blue Renner coloradosprings@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ashley Hamershock, Rochelle Reeder, Cara Bukacek, Jacey Blue Renner, Jessi Scoletti, Christa Hays, Brandy Lovelace, Linden Butrym

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lauren McKenzie, REN Creativ, Zak Bloomfield, Zak Kroger, Gray Warrior Photography, Tish Collins, Farm Credit of Southern Colorado, Singing Bowls of the Rockies, Outrider Hotel, Pasley Commerical Interiors, Maria Navaratne, Candidly Created, Trevor Cokley, Mtn Shadows Aerials, Stellar Propeller Studio, Parker Seibold, Lily Martins, John Shepard Photography, Melissa Humble Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle Learn

Proverbs 3:5-6

Reopening And We Feel Like Celebrating!

We’re the luxury facial bar known for our efficient, effective, and accessible facials, lashes, brows and skincare services that everyone loves from busy moms to 9–5 workers to beauties building a life on their own timeline!

We’ve got 70 locations nationwide and the grand re-opening of our Colorado Springs location adds another store to the map, and we couldn’t be more excited! Open house from 1 – 4 PM on May 17th, don’t miss out on this exclusive deal!

Make Wine Wednesday your new midweek tradition at Pamela’s.

Join us every Wednesday and enjoy 50% off select bottles of wine with the purchase of food, inviting you to linger a little longer and savor what matters.

Rooted in the spirit of Americana and inspired by the beauty of Colorado, Pamela’s brings people together over thoughtful dishes, quality ingredients and genuine hospitality. Whether it’s a spontaneous evening or a long-overdue night out, your table is waiting.

Pamela’s at Hotel Polaris. Pull up a chair. Stay awhile.

Start Sipping

business monthly

New Visitor Center Opens at the U.S. Air Force Academy (Free Entry)

Experience the all-new visitor center at the U.S. Air Force Academy during its grand opening on Saturday, May 16. Located just outside the North Gate, the center is free and open to the public; no base access required. Open daily, the space blends hands-on exhibits with a thoughtful use of digital media, stunning views, and a closer look at cadet life. It’s a perfect outing for families, visitors, and the local community. usafa.edu/hosmer

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A Colorado Rodeo

Colorado Ballet Society is premiering a bold interpretation of Aaron Copland’s iconic ballet Rodeo reimagined through the lens of Colorado’s pioneering heritage. Set against the backdrop of Colorado Springs, this new choreography celebrates cowboys and cowgirls, Colorado Springs’ Western heritage and young love, while honoring the timeless spirit of Copland’s music. The inspiration came from the grandfather of one of CBS' students; John Varady is the production's chief benefactor. May 21. Pikes Peak Center.  danceinthesprings. com/performances/a-colorado-rodeo-appalachian-spring

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Dutch Heritage Gardens Spring Open House

Dutch Heritage Gardens is a wholesale greenhouse that is usually closed to the public. The spring open house gives shoppers the opportunity to enjoy the gorgeous greenhouse environment while shopping acres of locally grown annuals, perennials, herbs, veggies, hanging baskets, patio planters and houseplants fresh from the greenhouse floor. Runs May 22-24 and May 29-31 from 9 am-5 pm each day. dhgardens.com 11901 E. Palmer Divide, Larkspur

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ARTICLE BY CHRISTA HAYS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZAK BLOOMFIELD, ZAK KROGER AND GRAY WARRIOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Joy, Painted Large

Molly McClure: Showing Up in Murals Across the City

In a city where art is starting to define entire neighborhoods, one local muralist is leaving a mark that goes far beyond paint on a wall. Molly McClure’s work is bold, bright and instantly recognizable—and if you’ve spent any time around Colorado Springs, chances are you’ve seen it.

Her story started in a house where art was just part of everyday life. Her father was a painter and architectural engineer and grandmother an artist, so it was always there. But it didn’t fully click as a career until later.

“I always loved it, but I didn’t totally see it as my path until college,” she says. “There was one drawing class where it just kind of hit me—like, okay, this is it.”

MAKING AN IDEA REAL

She enrolled at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design, but her journey didn’t follow a straight line. Eventually, she made her way to Northern California, where things took a turn that ended up shaping her career in a completely different way.

Working with her dad in woodworking and architectural design, she learned skills not always associated with artists— managing projects, working with teams and actually building things from the ground up.

“That’s where I really learned how to take an idea and make it real,” she says. “Not just the creative side, but the process behind it. I got to become a craftsman.”

About a decade ago, she came back to Colorado with a pretty clear goal: be a full-time artist. And she treated it like a job from day one—building a portfolio, creating structure and consistently putting herself out there with galleries and businesses around Colorado Springs and Denver.

MURALS, MURALS + MORE MURALS

Her big break came in 2018, with a mural of Jimi Hendrix on a large wall off Platte Avenue. Jimi’s head turned heads—and more importantly, it opened doors.

From there, things picked up quickly. She became part of the momentum behind the Knob Hill Urban Arts District, helping shape the look and feel of the area while contributing to its community-driven energy. She now has completed about 80 murals across the city.

Now, her work shows up everywhere— schools, small businesses, nonprofit spaces—the kind of places where people actually live their lives. And that’s exactly what she loves about it.

“I want people to feel something positive when they see it. Even if it just makes their day a little better.”

“My work is in communities and people feel a connection—an ownership of it,” she says. “It’s out where people can see it every day and be involved in the process.”

She also genuinely enjoys the collaborative side of mural work. Whether it’s working with a school, a business owner or a nonprofit, she sees input and limitations as part of the creative process—not something that gets in the way.

“Sometimes those boundaries actually challenge me to be better,” she says. “They push you to think differently.”

THE PURPOSE: JOY

Still, she’s selective about what she takes on. It has to feel right—and it has to align with the bigger purpose behind her work.

Because at the center of everything she creates is one simple idea: joy.

“I want people to feel something positive when they see it,” she says. “Even if it just makes their day a little better.”

You can see that in murals across the city—from the horses at Martinez Elementary to a colorful veterinary clinic that somehow manages to make people smile before they even walk inside. Looking ahead, she’s thinking about growth—not just in terms of projects, but in building something sustainable. Hiring a full-time assistant is on the horizon, along with expanding her reach in public art.

At the same time, she’s learning how important it is to slow down, too—finding inspiration in nature, quiet moments, and a little bit of balance in between projects. Because at the end of the day, her work isn’t just about filling walls—it’s about creating something that people connect with.

Piece by piece, she’s helping Colorado Springs feel a little more vibrant, a little more colorful—and a lot more joyful.

Website: mollymcclureart.com

Facebook: @Molly.C.McClure

Instagram: @MollyMcClureArt

ARTICLE BY JESSI SCOLETTI PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE OUTRIDER HOTEL & PASLEY COMMERICAL INTERIORS

A SPIRITof ADVENTURE

The Outrider Hotel: Manitou’s New Gem

Named after an idea of a scout—someone who rides ahead of the group to escort, guard and see what lies beyond the next hill—The Outrider Hotel reopens in May 2026 and is excited to be part of a new chapter in Manitou Springs.

“Manitou Springs has always been a place shaped by explorers from the Indigenous communities who first moved through this valley, to the early adventurers drawn to the mountains and mineral springs. But for us, the idea of the “outrider” also represents something happening today,” explains Connor Gatlin, one of the hotel’s new co-owners. He adds, “We hope this hotel can be a small light in the city bringing new life, thoughtful hospitality, and a spirit of adventure to the community.”

THE ADVENTUROUS OWNERS

Gatlin and Jordan Malara spent years traveling with family to mountain towns and wild spaces, chasing hikes, climbs and long days outside.

“Every great trip we took had one thing in common: a home base that was simple, welcoming and designed with explorers in mind,” Gatlin says.

As locals to the Manitou Springs area, they always dreamed of building a space close to home that would embody the adventurous spirit discovered in so many of their travels. They bought the local property last year and began renovating.

THE OUTRIDER

Described as welcoming, adventurous and intentional, the reimagined hotel blends elevated design with the raw beauty of the canyon.

“We wanted guests to feel both grounded in nature and genuinely comfortable,” Gatlin says.

With inspiration that came from the landscape itself, the sandstone cliffs, the trailheads and the energy of people who come

here to explore the great outdoors, The Outrider offers a modern yet outdoorsy feel, creating an intentional space for guests.

The hotel is conveniently located off Manitou Avenue in Manitou Springs, making it easy for guests to explore everything the area has to offer. Close to the Garden of the Gods, a short walk to downtown Manitou’s shops and restaurants and close to iconic attractions like the Manitou Incline and the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, The Outrider is a basecamp with Manitou’s best at their fingertips.

ONE SPECIAL COMMUNITY

From the very beginning, many local businesses, designers, craftsmen and makers have poured into the creation and design of The Outrider, helping shape everything from the spaces themselves to the small details that guests experience.

“We’re incredibly thankful for the dedication and support of this community and The Outrider wouldn’t be what it is without them,” Gatlin says.

As the doors reopen, the hotel wants that spirit of collaboration to continue.

“We’re excited to keep working with local guides, outdoor outfitters, coffee shops and small businesses to highlight the best of Manitou Springs,” Gatlin shares. He adds, “We also love the idea of hosting intimate gatherings, retreats, and adventure-focused meetups.”

Community is everything, so let The Outsider welcome you home every time.

Address + Phone: 229 Manitou Avenue  |  719-457-6514

Website: outriderhotel.com

Instagram: @OutriderHotel

Facebook: @People/The-Outrider-Hotel/61588025546317/

A Burst of Color

Every summer, Palisade-based jewelry designer Tish Collins builds a design book brimming with ideas for her next collection before settling into her home studio to create from September to May. Her necklaces, earrings, bracelets and brooches are equal parts wearable and sculptural, crafted with materials like resin impregnated paper, Japanese glass beads, sterling silver and ferrous metal. Many materials are sourced locally—beads from a nearby stone shop, cut metal squares from All Metals in Grand Junction.

“I also use a lot of river rock,” she says. “Living in Colorado is a big, big influence.”

Collins, who started designing jewelry more than 20 years ago, sells her collections in Colorado Springs exclusively through HunterWolff Gallery. Her clientele relies on jewelry for pops of color against a monochromatic wardrobe, so Collins leans on geometric shapes and bold hues for every unique piece. Her jewelry is often instantly recognizable.

“I don’t think artists should get stuck doing the same thing every year,” she says, “but you want to be consistent enough that if someone sees a piece, they know who made it.”

CREATIVITY OVER CUSTOM

Aside from a two-week workshop at Penland School of Craft in North Carolina, Collins is completely self-taught. She says it took about six years to refine what she does now—designing pieces with alkyd resin and enamel spray paint and using complex techniques like acid etching. Her tools range from a jeweler’s saw to a rolling mill to a large T-shirt press. At times, Collins is working on 50 pieces simultaneously.

“I like to keep my hands moving,” she says. “I have a really hard time if they’re not moving.”

Collins only designs based on her current inspirations, whether it’s the beauty of nature or one of her favorite graphic designers, the late Rex Ray. She finds that bespoke requests don’t spark her creativity.

“I always say, jewelry finds the person it’s supposed to,” she says. “If someone asks me to make something specific, I’m probably not going to enjoy making it because it’s only influenced by what the person is asking for.”

THE POWER OF CONNECTION

Collins’ work is rooted in storytelling.

“I struggle with communicating as far as words go, so my artistic process is really specific to what I need to say,” she says.

Collins and her husband have even taken some of her favorite jewelry designs and translated them into three-foot-tall wall sculptures displayed in their home.

This month, Collins exhibits her jewelry collection at the Denver Arts Festival, followed by Boulder’s Pearl Street Arts Fest in July and the Ridgeway Rendezvous Art & Craft Festival in August. Connecting with customers brings her as much joy as creating the pieces themselves—something she plans to do for a long time.

“Artists never retire; we just keep working,” she says. “I have customers who buy a piece every year, and I’ve had a customer who finished cancer treatment and bought a piece to celebrate. I hope my pieces bring them joy as well.”

Websites: tishcollins.com and hunterwolffgallery.com Facebook + Instagram: @HunterWolffGallery

Building on a Legacy

ARTICLE BY CHRISTA HAYS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FARM CREDIT

OF SOUTHERN COLORADO & STELLAR PROPELLER STUDIO

Farm Credit of Southern Colorado: Moving Forward, While Holding on to what Matters

As you walk into the offices of Farm Credit of Southern Colorado, you immediately sense the association’s commitment to its customers. Photos of high school and college students line the walls, recipients of the association’s annual scholarship campaign. A display check written out for $8 million dollars is behind the front desk, signifying the patronage dollars the cooperative pays back to its customer owners.

“Giving back to our communities and serving them has always been in the DNA of the Farm Credit System,” Farm Credit of Southern Colorado President & CEO Jeremy Anderson explains. “For us, we feel that has been on full display over the past several years.”

For over a century, Farm Credit of Southern Colorado has built its reputation the way most good things are built—through trust, consistency and meeting the needs of customer owners.

The Colorado Springs-based cooperative has stood alongside farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses as a lender and partner who understands the numbers, but also the families, people and legacy behind them.

So, when Project Evolution went live in March, it wasn’t just another initiative or system upgrade. It marked a meaningful moment for the organization—one that had been carefully considered and embraced by all involved. It was done with intention.

“This wasn’t just about technology,” Anderson says. “It was about making sure we remain a trusted partner for the next 100 years.”

With noticeable pride, he notes the buy-in and investment that occurred amongst all employees to bring the project to life.

“Ultimately, what we have built and continue to build is a way to better serve our customers through enhanced data and technology,” he explains. “I could

not be more proud of the investment the team has shown to get us to this point.”

AGRICULTURE IS EVOLVING

Long-time customer-owners still value the relationships they’ve built over decades—the conversations, trust, the familiarity of working with someone who truly understands their needs and their operation. At the same time, a new generation is stepping in with different expectations. They want accessibility, efficiency and the ability to manage their business from wherever they are.

Generational farms bring all of these needs at once, and Farm Credit of Southern Colorado understands that continuing to evolve to meet those needs is paramount to being a viable partner.

There was also a growing awareness that existing systems were limited—relying on third-party technology made it harder to adapt, slower to respond and difficult to access customer data.

A PATH FORWARD

At that point, the conversation became how to best meet the changing needs of customer owners. The realization was that it was time for a transformational change.

The defining moment came after months of research and due diligence, when leadership presented the vision for Project Evolution to the Board of Directors.

“The response was a resounding yes, no questions about it,” Anderson recalls. “That’s when we knew— this was the path forward.”

The team dug in and got to work on Project Evolution. What followed was a multi-year, association-wide effort that touched every part of the

cooperative. And like most things worth doing, it wasn’t always easy. Halfway through, the weight of the work being done started to show. But instead of slowing down, the team leaned in, encouraging each other to keep pushing forward.

“People kept coming back to why we were doing it, and that’s what kept us going,” he says.

Over time, that shared purpose turned into ownership. This wasn’t just a project anymore, it was something people felt invested in, something they were helping shape.

“That says everything about our team,” Anderson says. “People believed in what we were building and showed an unwavering commitment to our customers.”

REDEFINING AN ORGANIZATION

By the time Launch Day, March 3, arrived, there was a mix of anticipation, nerves and excitement. Teams gathered together—marking the moment in custom Farm Credit sneakers—and worked through the night to bring the new system online.

“We were here all night, exhausted, but also energized and enthusiastic,” Anderson says. “You could feel how important it was.”

It wasn’t just about launching a system. It was about seeing three years of work come to life.

“You don’t get many opportunities to redefine your organization,” Anderson shares. “This was one of them.”

The result is a fully cloud-based, integrated platform designed to better meet customers where they are. From digital loan applications and secure document uploads to enhanced online banking and mobile tools, the new system creates a more seamless and accessible experience.

But for all the changes behind the scenes, the core of Farm Credit of Southern Colorado remains the same.

“Relationships still lead,” Anderson says. “Our focus is on leveraging the latest technology to enhance those

relationships, free up time to spend with our customer owners, and expand the impact we have in Southern and Eastern Colorado.”

By removing inefficiencies and streamlining processes, the system gives loan officers ownership and creates time for meaningful conversations, intentional guidance and the kind of support customers have come to expect.

BUILDING ON A LEGACY

Looking ahead, Project Evolution positions Farm Credit of Southern Colorado to expand its reach across the 31 counties it serves, with a renewed ability to connect with emerging and underserved agricultural markets. With stronger data and marketing capabilities, the organization is better equipped to understand customer needs and deliver more personalized solutions.

At the same time, something less tangible—but just as important—has taken hold internally.

“It’s shifted how we think,” Anderson says. “We’ve taken care of the transactional pieces and can now focus on the relationship.”

That’s what Project Evolution really represents: a decision to move forward thoughtfully and intentionally. To embrace change without losing what matters most. To build on a legacy rather than to simply preserve it. To make sure that the trust built over the last 100 years continues—strong, relevant and ready.

Farm Credit of Southern Colorado didn’t change who they were; they just ensured they are ready for what’s next.

Address + Phone: 5110 Edison Avenue  |  719-570-1087

Website: aglending.com

Facebook: @FarmCreditSouthernColorado Instagram: @AgLending

A Shifting Sound Landscape

Singing Bowls of the Rockies: Pause, Listen and Return to a Natural State of Balance

In a world increasingly defined by racing thoughts, constant noise and an unrelenting pace, the quiet resonance of singing bowls offers something rare: stillness.

ANCIENT ROOTS

Rooted in ancient Himalayan traditions, Tibetan singing bowls have been used for centuries in meditation, spiritual ceremonies and therapeutic practices. Crafted from metal alloys or crystal, these bowls produce sustained tones and vibrations when struck or circled with a mallet. Historically, monks and practitioners believed these sounds could help align the body’s energy, deepen meditation and promote a sense of inner balance.

This idea continues to resonate in modern wellness culture.

Today, that tradition finds new life in places like Singing Bowls of the Rockies in Colorado Springs, where sound baths introduce participants to an immersive, meditative experience guided entirely by vibration and tone.

MODERN EXPERIENCE

Upon arrival, guests step into a calm, dimly lit studio, often carrying pillows and blankets to create a personalized resting space. Shoes are left at the door, signaling a transition from the outside world into a quieter, more intentional environment. Mats line the walls, while an array of crystal bowls, Tibetan bowls, gongs and other instruments rest at the center of the room, hinting at the experience to come.

ARTICLE BY ROCHELLE REEDER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PARKER SEIBOLD & LILY MARTINS

Before the session begins, participants are gently guided through what to expect. As the lights dim further, the room settles into stillness. Then, gradually, the first tones emerge. The bowls begin to “sing,” their layered frequencies filling the space in a way that feels both structured and fluid. Participants are encouraged to close their eyes, allowing the sound to become the focal point.

As the session unfolds, the sound practitioners move quietly through the room, creating a shifting soundscape. The tones ebb and flow, sometimes distant and soft, other times resonating more closely, washing over the body in waves. The effect is both physical and mental. Vibrations dissolve tension while the mind drifts into a deeply relaxed state, guided by the phenomenon known as the Frequency Following Response, in which the brain begins to mirror the frequencies of the sounds, helping to quiet mental activity. Many describe the experience as meditation made accessible, guided not by effort but by sound itself.

DIFFERENT PATH

At the center of Singing Bowls of the Rockies is its founder, Dr. Gigi Turner, PsyD, whose path into sound baths began with a background in psychology and a curiosity about how the body processes stress.

“My job is to help people to understand their behavior, their triggers, their stress—but as patients would return to their sessions, there was still something missing,” she explains. “They were doing the homework and following the techniques, but I realized we are so complex, there is not one simple solution for us.”

Over time, she recognized that intellectual understanding alone often fails to release emotional tension stored in the body.

Her first encounter with singing bowls revealed how quickly sound could shift the body into a state of calm, sparking what would become a deeper calling. It was a way to introduce a more subconscious work, providing a different level and route to regulation.

Through both technical study and intuitive practice, she learned to work with the unique tones of each bowl, crafting sound environments designed to guide the nervous system into relaxation. What began as a personal exploration has since grown into a community-centered practice, offering sound baths, private sessions and collaborative events.

COMPLEMENTARY TOOL

For many, these sessions provide more than relaxation. It is an invitation to shift the body into a parasympathetic state, where it is designed to rest and repair itself.

My hope with this work is simple: to create a space where people can pause, breathe and reconnect with themselves,” she says. “Sound has a unique way of reaching places in the body and mind that words sometimes cannot.”

As interest grows in how sound and vibration influence the nervous system, experiences like these are increasingly seen as complementary tools for wellbeing. In a culture where stress is ever-present, the enduring tones of singing bowls offer a simple yet powerful invitation: to pause, listen and return to a natural state of balance.

Address + Phone: 76 S Sierra Madre, Suite C  |  719-464-3444

Website: singingbowlsoftherockies.com Facebook + Instagram: @SingingBowlsOfTheRockies

Mountain Shadows Aerial Silks: Curating High Flying Leaders

SHAPING CONFIDENCE

ARTICLE BY JACEY BLUE RENNER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN SHEPARD PHOTOGRAPHY & MELISSA HUMBLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Elizabeth Fluharty, silks program director for Mountain Shadows Aerial Silks, is creating something both beautiful and profound.

“A community space where you can be active and supportive together,” she says of the program, now in its 10th year.

Recently, to celebrate the milestone, Fluharty had students collaborate on a studio mural painting “YET”—a studio mantra that defines the benchmarks and hope-fueled moments each student has ahead of them.

Several of the students also got commemorative tattoos, “keeping hope as part of their exercise regiment,” she says.

GET STRONG. DO IT BEAUTIFULLY

While Mountain Shadows Aerial Silks’ primary focus is on students of all ages learning how to succeed in their aerial skills classes, Fluharty also incorporates leadership principles into each practice. Every month, a different theme infuses confidence, discipline and leadership. Meanwhile, the studio is growing students’ physical strength through artistic and body movements.

“Get strong. Do it beautifully,” Fluharty says. “We are trying to help people find a little more discipline.”

EVERYONE CAN DISCOVER SILKS

Housed within the gorgeous new Springs Dance West studio, Mountain Shadows Aerial Silks offers an Intro to Silks Class for adults, teens and youth from age eight who are interested in trying something new— no previous acrobatic or circus experience needed.

“This program has been developed to be accessible for absolute beginners,” Fluharty says.

From getting comfortable with the silks themselves, to simple poses and sequences, climbing intros and conditioning, students and instructors work together to build a foundation and trust during their first two-week group class. Fluharty’s background in partner work, acrobatics, rope and theater work (check her out as part of the Millibo Art Theatre, too!), make the depth of her artistic direction both dynamic and inspiring.

“We wanted to be more about community,” she says of the program that incorporates various layers of involvement through annual student showcases, participating with the silks program during a Springs Dance studio-wide biennial A Nutcracker: A Holiday Tradition Remixed performance, and clothing swaps to benefit community philanthropy partners.

STARTING THE JOURNEY

Mountain Shadows Aerial Silks is about realizing potential, honing confidence and creativity, and finding artistic and athletic space within a community that supports and applauds strength in every phase... just as you are. There is a fluidity to the beauty and etherealness that floats from performers as they drop and wrap into poses suspended from the colorful silks hanging from the studio ceiling.

While acrobatics and strength are certainly at the core, artistry is interpreted as each student learns and builds on movements. Beginner and progressive programs cultivate body positivity and exceed self-expectations. Visit the website to start your own silks journey. Remember, you haven’t met all the best parts of yourself… YET.

Address + Phone: 4175 Centennial Blvd  |  719-635-1004

Website: springsaerial.com

Facebook: @MountainShadowsAerialSilks

Instagram: @Mtn.Shadows.AerialSilks

While acrobatics and strength are certainly at the core, artistry is interpreted as each student learns and builds on movements.

THE PAST,

Enhancing the Experience PRESERVING

John Weiss remembers his first visit to the Manitou Springs Penny Arcade. It was 1973, and he was a prospective college student exploring the area when he spent a day in Manitou Springs. The experience stayed with him, ultimately helping influence his decision to attend Colorado College and planting the seed for a lifelong connection to the area.

Years later, that connection deepened. In the early 1990s, Weiss returned to Colorado Springs and became involved in launching a local publication, The Colorado Springs Independent, focused on providing a broader voice for the community. He went on to lead the publication for nearly three decades.

In 2025, Weiss found himself once again answering a call—this time not in newsprint, but in nostalgia. When he learned that the Penny Arcade might be sold and potentially altered, he stepped in, not simply as a buyer, but what he describes as a “caretaker.” His goal: to preserve the spirit of a place that has brought joy to generations, while thoughtfully enhancing it for those yet to come.

93 YEARS OF HISTORY

The Manitou Springs Penny Arcade was originally launched by Jack Kerns in 1933 as “Bingo Jacks,” a gaming hall. It changed after Colorado’s attorney general ruled that for-profit bingo games were considered gambling and therefore illegal. The Kerns family pivoted their business model and established the Manitou Springs Penny Arcade, offering coin-operated games and instant photo booths. Over the next 92 years, the arcade amassed more than 600 historic and modern arcade games, pinball machines, Skee-Ball and kiddie rides.

In the early ‘70s, founder Jack Kerns passed away and his wife sold the arcade to their sons, with Alan Kerns being the primary operator. The Penny Arcade remained in the Kerns family until selling the property to John Weiss in May 2025.

THE LEARNING CURVE

Weiss spent his career in newsprint and knew he would experience a steep learning curve when he purchased the Penny Arcade.

“I had a very sophisticated business plan: ‘Don’t screw it up before Labor Day,’” Weiss says.

Weiss decided to allow the day-to-day operations to remain the same during the first high season. It wasn’t until October that they began discussing improvements and additions to the arcade.

“I realized quickly that because many of the games offered in our arcade were over 50 years old, repairing damaged or broken machines would require some imagination,” he says. “For instance, to repair our Skee-Ball machines, we needed to find someone who could resurface the decks with cork to keep them authentic. I didn’t even know where to start and it took time and research to find someone to do it.”

One of the first things that Weiss and his team did was to eliminate about 100 games that were either impossible to repair or too costly to maintain. Then they cleared out two full storage areas to find spare parts and create a “machine hospital,” where skilled repairmen could fix and maintain the remaining games.

To address the issue of sourcing parts for some of their older games, they are currently looking into 3D printed parts as a potential alternative.

They also are looking at some improvements and additions.

“We listen to the community and value their input,” he says. “There have been some wonderful suggestions that we plan to implement over the next few years.”

Address + Phone: 930 Manitou Avenue, Manitou Springs | 719-659-5371

Website: manitouspringsarcade.com

Facebook: @ManitouSpringsArcade

Instagram: @Manitou_Springs_Arcade

Preserving the historic flavor of the arcade and modernizing the property is Weiss and his team’s main goal. Some of the improvements and additions that visitors can expect to see over the next two years include:

• New arcade games

• Bathrooms

• Snack bar and eating area

• Locally sourced redemption counter prizes

• Community event space

616 SOUTH TEJON

THE ART OF DINING MULTIPLIED BY THREE

ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Spring Floral Bowl

BRING THE BRIGHTNESS AND FRESHNESS OF SPRING INDOORS BY CREATING YOUR OWN FLORAL BOWL ARRANGEMENT.

Spring, come quickly! And if not, bring spring indoors anyway. Flowers brighten any room, any day of the year. No need to wait for a special occasion or holiday – give yourself permission to brighten everyday life with a bowl full of flowers. Place florals in an entryway, kitchen, living room space or even bathroom. Florals make any room come alive with pops of color and the smells of spring that’s just about ready to burst outside.

Consider this your personal invitation to play with flowers by creating your very own Floral Bowl Arrangement. Use any cereal bowl in the kitchen and a bundle of store bought flowers. For extra texture and depth, look for small spring branches and ornamental grasses found in your yard to pop into the arrangement, like I did here. Then, place your floral bowl in a place where you need that burst of joy most. Enjoy!

Supplies:

• 1 bundle of flowers (about 24 stems) + floral food packet

• spring branches & ornamental grasses found in your yard (optional)

• 6” bowl (cereal bowl size)

• floral shears (or garden clippers, kitchen shears, even craft scissors in a pinch)

• 12” square cut chicken wire

• wire cutters

• garden gloves to protect your hands when forming chicken wire

• clear floral tape (scotch tape will also do)

• lazy susan to easily move your arrangement and work from all sides (optional)

Preparation & Assembly:

• First prepare the mechanics. The mechanics are the non-floral elements used to assemble a floral arrangement. These materials will act as a grid in which the flowers are built into to hold each stem in its place.

• Wearing garden gloves, cut chicken wire roughly into a 12” square. Loosely form the chicken wire into a ball and place inside the bowl.

• Use clear floral tape to make an X shape over the top of the bowl to hold the chicken wire securely into place. This will also give extra support when adding the floral elements later.

• Fill the bowl with water and mix in a flower food packet, if your flowers came with one.

• Begin to arrange floral elements into the bowl. As a general rule, you will want to start with the strongest, thickest stems and end with the most delicate stems. Here, I began with branches, then the largest base flowers followed by taller focal flowers, and finally delicate stems, grasses and wispy greens.

BUILT ON Family, SERVED WITH Heart

Zócalo: How Decades of Shared Meals Became One of Colorado Springs’ Most Welcoming Tables

ARTICLE BY BRANDY LOVELACE PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN MCKENZIE, REN CREATIV

When you step into Zócalo, owners Lindsey and Sergio De Los Santos want you to feel like you’re on a vacation at the beach— without leaving downtown Colorado Springs.

Lindsey is the brains behind the design of the bright, vibrant space. She designed every detail, from the VW Bus in the back corner to the swinging seats by the large front windows.

“We can open those windows, even in the winter, and it feels like you’re at a taco stand at the beach in Mexico,” Lindsey says.

And for Sergio, it’s all about the food. He combines his family recipes with his memories of vendors selling tacos on bicycles, sauces hanging from the handlebars.

“I like to take the food I grew up with and put a different spin on it,” Sergio says. “I just like to feed people!”

FOOD THAT STARTED AT HOME

Feeding people started at the De Los Santos home near Chicago, where they would host neighbors and friends for birthday parties in their home.

“We would make all of this food,” Lindsey says, “and people would tell us ‘You should open a restaurant.””

Sergio and Lindsey went on to open Sergio’s Cantina, which they ran for 15 years, before adding a bar a few years later.

But when their son moved to Colorado for college, the couple decided to relocate to Colorado Springs. Zócalo gave them the ability to be close to family and also to experiment with what they wanted their new space to be.

“We love the beach, and wanted to create a Tulum-style beach eatery,” Lindsey says. “We wanted people to feel like they were escaping their everyday life when they step into this space.”

HOSPITALITY AT THE HEART

One of the first things you notice when you come to Zócalo is Sergio. If he’s not greeting guests or running food, he’s in the kitchen prepping ingredients for fresh-made guacamole and salsa.

“Taking care of people is really what makes Sergio tick,” Lindsey says.

Over the years, Sergio has created a rapport with his customers. When he sees a familiar face, he will often drop off a sample of a new special he’s working on, both to get their opinions and to see their faces light up with delight.

“That’s my biggest satisfaction,” he says, “seeing my customers happy.”

And Zócalo is certainly full of happy customers, munching on fresh made guacamole, dipping quesabirria tacos in spicy au jus and savoring slow-cooked carnitas—with a flight of margaritas on the side!

In a city full of places to eat, Zócalo stands out for how it makes people feel. It’s a place where food carries memories. Where strangers become regulars. Where hospitality isn’t an afterthought.

Address + Phone: 418 South Tejon Street, Suite 100  |  719-344-8392

Website: zocalocolorado.com

Facebook + Instagram: @ZocaloCOS

ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s , she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?

A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?

A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?

A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?

A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

BERRY BRUSCHETTA

A RECIPE FROM A CUP FULL OF SASS

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY TINNIN

This Berry Bruschetta is a delightful twist on the classic bruschetta that we all love. This version uses fruit, bringing a sweet element to the traditionally savory dish. With the use of fresh berries, cream cheese, delicious fruit spread, crumbled cheese, and fresh rosemary, it is the perfect addition to your next spring event. This simple, yet beautiful appetizer could be enjoyed at your next brunch, shower or Mother’s Day celebration. But let’s be honest—you don’t need an excuse to enjoy this delectable dish!

INGREDIENTS:

• 12 baguette slices

• Extra virgin olive oil (for brushing)

• 4 oz cream cheese

• 1/4 cup Fruit and Honey Triple Berry Spread (or any fruit spread of your choice)

• 1/3 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• 1/3 cup fresh blueberries

• 2 oz fruit cheese (such as Wensleydale with Autumn Fruit), crumbled

• Fresh rosemary for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Lightly brush the front and back of the baguette slices with Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

3. Toast baguette slices in the oven for 3-5 minutes or until lightly toasted.

4. Once the baguette slices are cool, spread a generous layer of cream cheese over each slice.

5. Add the fruit spread on top of the cream cheese.

6. Add sliced strawberries and a few blueberries, allowing the vibrant colors to pop. (A great place to find fresh fruit is our local staple, Crystal & Rich’s Produce.)

7. Crumble the fruit cheese over the top for an added layer of richness and depth.

8. Garnish with fresh Rosemary if desired.

9. Serve and enjoy!

DELIGHT MOM WITH HOMEMADE BELGIAN WAFFLES

ARTICLE BY MATTHEW SOUSA

Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to treat Mom to a special homemade breakfast, and nothing says “I love you” like a plate of warm, fluffy Belgian waffles. These waffles are crispy on the outside, light and airy on the inside, and perfect for a delicious morning celebration.

CLASSIC BELGIAN WAFFLE RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 2 eggs, separated

• 1¾ cups milk

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1.  In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, then mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.

4.  In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter.

5. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it. Pour in enough batter to cover the surface and cook until golden brown and crisp.

Serving Suggestions:

Top the waffles with fresh berries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup or chocolate sauce. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or fresh orange juice for a perfect Mother’s Day surprise.

This simple yet elegant breakfast is a heartfelt way to show Mom just how much she means to you. Happy Mother’s Day!

BREAKFAST Mother’s Day

TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD TRULY PERSONALIZED HEALTHCARE

THE STRATA FOUNDATIONS PACKAGE

The Strata Foundations Package is designed to give you a comprehensive, whole-body introduction to a better way of caring for your health, and a strong, personalized foundation for lasting results.

Your experience begins with a one-on-one visit with a general practitioner to define your goals and create a customized care plan. From there, explore Strata Med’s integrated approach with both chiropractic care and acupuncture - each working together to support alignment, recovery, and overall well-being.

WHAT’S INCLUDED | $300 (valued at over $500)

• (1) General Practitioner Visit

• (1) Chiropractic Appointment

• (1) Acupuncture Appointment

CALL STRATA’S WELLNESS COORDINATORS AT 719.355.7112 TO PURCHASE OR SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN

AND GET STARTED.

MAY 2ND

National Space Day

Space Discovery Center | 10:00 AM

The National Space Day Community Event celebrates innovation, exploration and U.S. space achievements with activities for all ages in Colorado Springs. The event at Space Foundation Discovery Center features astronaut presentations and meet-and-greets, interactive STEM activities, robotics demonstrations, an inflatable planetarium, food trucks and family-friendly experiences for all ages.  discoverspace.org/national-space-day-community-event-colorado-springs

MAY 2ND

Kids Market May Day Artisan & Craft Fair

Norris Penrose Event Center | 10:00 AM

Art, handmade goodies and lots of smiles. Kick off the market season at the May Day Artisan & Craft Fair! This special event invites kids to try entrepreneurship, showcasing their handmade goods, practicing real-life business skills and proudly running their own booths. Young makers can connect with customers, gain confidence and keep the profits they earn. kidsmarkets.com/markets/colorado-springs-9

MAY 2ND

Ascending

ENT Center for the Arts | 7:00 PM

It’s the journey of a mythic bird that reaches the embrace of the sun and loses its physical body in a metaphor for spiritual transcendence. Colin Jacobsen and Siamak Aghaei:  Ascending Bird. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor. Max Bruch: Symphony No. 3 in E major. chamberorchestraofthesprings.org/ascending

MAY 2ND

The Incredible Circus Millibo

Millibo Art Theater | 11:00 AM

It's the grand finale of the Millibo season: a combination of professional performers and a troupe of 18 CirKids performing aerial acrobatics, stilt dancing, juggling, tumbling, balancing, puppetry, magic and clown antics! This year’s theme is “Cirque De Jolly Roger,” with the stage transformed into a sailing pirate ship bursting with circus energy. May 1-10. themat.org/incredible-circus-millibo

MAY 3RD

The State of Colorado: Celebrating 150 Years

Ute Pass Cultural Center, Woodland Park | 2:00 PM

ChoralSong rounds out its 2025/2026 season with a rousing celebration of the 150th anniversary of Colorado’s statehood. Featuring works designed to explore our Native American, Hispanic and Pioneer cultures, this concert will celebrate our state’s unique identity and the natural beauty that surrounds us. Tickets also include admission to a pre-concert lecture by local historian, Heidi Bailey.  choralsong.org/concert/the-state-of-colorado-ute-pass-cultural-center

MAY 9TH

FloraFest Art & Plant Market

Cottonwood Center for the Arts | 11:00 AM

Head to Cottonwood Center for the Arts for its 3rd Annual FloraFest. Find botanical-themed treasures for gift giving, garden growing and more. Stay for lunch with Bowl in the City food truck. Kids can have fun at the free craft table, and adults can enjoy a coffee or brunch libation from the bar. cottonwoodcenterforthearts.com/florafest

MAY 9TH

Run to the Shrine

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo | 5:00 PM

Run to the Shrine is an annual Cheyenne Mountain Zoo tradition. It is the only time of year that guests are allowed to travel the road to the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun by foot. The four-mile course offers amazing views as you ascend to the Shrine and back down to the Zoo. May 9 and 10. https://www.cmzoo.org/events-programs/special-events/run-to-the-shrine/

MAY 22ND

World Olympic Collectors' Fair 2026

The Antlers Hotel | 10:00 AM

Free public fair with more than 50 Olympic collectors from all over the world who buy/sell/trade memorabilia, pins, stamps and coins. See items from more than 100 years of Olympic Games, add to your collection or sell something. The event is sanctioned and supported by the International Olympic Committee and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee. May 22-24. aicolympic.org/wocf/wocf-2026

THROUGHOUT GRADUATION WEEK AT USAFA - MAY 24TH

Thunderbird Viewing at Hotel Polaris

Hotel Polaris

Throughout the week of May 24, dining on Pamela’s terrace provides the perfect viewing spot to watch the Thunderbirds practice flyovers. On graduation day, May 29, the Flatiron Plaza will offer reserved seats for viewing the Thunderbird air show. The Aviator also will host a special lunch, offering a buffet menu and access to the rooftop patio. thehotelpolaris.com

MAY 29TH

Lucy Darling

Pikes Peak Center | 7:30 PM

Award-winning performer Carisa Hendrix stars as charming socialite and cocktail enthusiast Lucy Darling as she continues her vagabond voyages with You’re Welcome—a touring variety show featuring her razor-sharp wit and delightful friends. Lucy is accompanied on piano, melodica, and other instruments by Mark Ettinger (musician, composer, and renowned globe-trotting juggler with the legendary Flying Karamazov Brothers). pikespeakcenter.com/events/detail/lucydarling

MAY 30TH

COS

Culture Passport Kickoff

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum | 10:00 AM

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and Visit Colorado Springs present the COS Culture Passport. The official launch of this digital passport program inspired by the America 250/Colorado 150 commemorations takes place from 10 am-2 pm on May 30. Kick off your summer history and cultural adventure with family-friendly activities presented by the regional passport sites. Please RSVP.  cspm.org/ events/culture-passport-family-fun-day

MAY 31ST

Kane Brown

Broadmoor World Arena | 7:00 PM

Kane Brown celebrates Military Appreciation Month with special guest Randall King. The country music singer and songwriter released his debut extended play "Closer" in June 2015 and the single, "Used to Love You Sober" later that year. In 2017, Brown became the first artist to have simultaneous number ones on all five main Billboard country charts. broadmoorworldarena.com/events/detail/kanebrown

Open air performance - for city streets and mountain roads.

Colorado has a way of rewarding the scenic route. The light lingers longer, the roads climb higher, and every drive holds the possibility of becoming something more than simply getting somewhere. The Porsche 911 is made for Colorado, equally at home downtown, on high desert overlooks, or carving through mountain passes with the top open and the horizon ahead. With timeless design, effortless performance, and a presence that never has to announce itself, the Porsche 911 brings together precision, elegance, and exhilaration in one unmistakable form. This is performance shaped for Colorado. Confident, refined, and always ready for the next stretch of road.

Colorado Springs