Holiday Fun 2022

It’s Christmas year-round in Manitou Springs

By Laura Ettinger-Harwell

Are you a “Yulephile”? You won’t find it in any dictionary, but a Yulephile is a person who is obsessed with Christmas. You might also be a “Whovillian,” if you love Christmas so much you prepare for it months ahead of time.

Manitou has just the place for you! No matter the season, the Christmas in Manitou shop, 726 Manitou Ave., is open and in the holiday mood.

Julie Pastuer and her husband, David, are finishing up their sev enth year as owners of Christmas in Manitou.

“Before us, David’s mother, Paula Pastuer, was the owner and then there were two other people that owned it. As far as we know, the store has probably been around 25-plus years,” she said.

“David’s family has lived in Manitou for more than 45 years.”

In a town famous for quirky and eclectic shops, galleries, restaurants and boutiques, this store stands out. The couple also owns the Glass Blowers of Manitou, 8 Cañon Ave., just around the corner from the Christmas in Manitou shop.

In the heat of summer, the store beckons with an open door, a hint of cool air and the siren song of holiday music.

“We felt that Christmas is that time of year that everyone celebrates, and we wanted to bring the tradition forward, with a new eye for unique products as well as traditional figures,” Pastuer said.

“We want people to remember what they love about Christmas.”

A year-round Christmas ornament store may seem a bit odd, but the annual number of visitors who come into the store clearly indicates that Christmas is never truly out of season.

“We do get a lot of business in the summer. People love Manitou and people love Christmas,” Pastuer said.

The diverse selection of ornaments — in more than 20 catego ries — means there is something for everyone.

“I love our customers. They share pictures of the ornaments they have purchased here, hanging on their trees. They share sto ries. Having had other stores before, Christmas is a good fit for us and brings a lot of smiles,” said Pasteur.

“Who doesn’t love Santa? Or want a funny Tiger King or an AC/DC ornament on their tree? We have every princess and superhero to make the little ones (and big ones) happy.”

Christmas trends come and go.

“If Christmas had a favorite trend this year, it would have to be the Gnome,” said Pastuer. “Gnomes dressed in every color. The classic is Santa.”

Other perennial favorites include the Santa by Karen Didion.

“The face is priceless and his coats are opulent,” she said.

Other bestsellers are ornaments and holiday items that have a woodland theme.

“Everyone wants a little Colorado to take home,” Pastuer said. So, whether you pre-game for Christmas beginning in June, you’re a tourist lured in by twinkly lights and nostalgia or just looking to indulge in the latest holiday trends, the Christmas in Manitou shop has all the ornaments and trimmings your holiday heart could desire.

Christmas in Manitou is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sundays. Information: christmasinmanitou.com or 719-685-4290.

Julie Pastuer loves this collection of Santas wearing costumes embellished with crystals.

Photos by Rhonda Van Pelt

These ornaments are hand-blown and hand-painted in Poland.

Christmas in Manitou offers a variety of festive nutcrackers.

Home (made) for the holidays

By Bridgett Harris

I f you’re hoping to go homemade for your holiday gift-giving this year, there’s really no better place to get inspiration and instruction than Manitou Springs and Old Colorado City.

With multiple art galleries, talented artisans and quirky-but-cool stores offering a variety of classes and workshops, you’ll be able to make-and-take your way through the season and impress all your giftees with your thoughtfulness — and newly acquired skills.

EDIBLE CREATIONS

Want to wow foodie family and friends with unforgettable homemade goodies? Take a class from a local chef and learn how to make tasty gifts every one will love.

Bárbara SantosMcAllister, owner of Cocina Corazón, offers lessons in traditional Mexican cooking that can take place in her kitchen or yours. She also offers group classes throughout the year, teaching attendees how to prepare tamales, salsa and other dishes.

It’s fair to say that there are very few gift recipients who will turn up their noses at a gift of tamales or homemade salsa, making this an excellent choice for creating a memorable gift. Find an upcoming class or book a private lesson at www.cocinacorazon.com.

Gather Food Studio (2011 W. Colorado Ave., www.gatherfood studio.com) is another option for creating culinary awesome ness. Co-owners and chefs David Cook Jr. and Cortney Smith have assembled an Avengers-level team of instructors who love to teach the ins and outs of cooking and baking through classes offered in-house and online.

Class costs vary, depending on the class length and the reci pe’s complexity. Classes fill up quite fast, so now is not the time to waffle.

MAC MAGIC

For making gifts of the non-edible variety, you can venture over to the Manitou Art Center, co-housed with the Manitou Springs Library (513 and 515 Manitou Ave., www.manitouart center.org). Their partnership has created a hub of affordable art istry with classes for projects including fabric dyeing, woodwork ing and sewing.

The MAC also has an impressive makerspace featuring

professional equipment for tasks such as woodworking, welding, printmaking, ceramics and metalsmithing.

Access to the equipment requires a monthly membership fee of $50 or a library card membership. The latter is free, but it will limit the hours and days you can access the space.

Members are required to take free certification classes about the equipment they wish to use. The classes teach safe and respectful use of the space, with the bonus benefit of learning a few basics in the craft associated with the tools.

Once you’re certified, you’ll have access to the machines and plenty of opportunity to create. Whether you’re an experienced artisan who just needs tools to build that perfect present or a beginner wanting to learn the basics for your homemade holiday, the MAC’s makerspace has you covered.

THOUGHTFUL CRAFTS

Brighten the day of your favorite candle lover with a handmade candle crafted right in Skye Candle Co.’s chandlery studio (1107 Manitou Ave., www.skyecandleco.com). This woman-owned small business stands ready to be your handmade hero with candle-making workshops during business hours or by special appointment.

You’ll design and pour beautiful soy wax candles scented with essential oils and be able to pick them up one to two busi ness days after they’re made. Or pick up a gift card for another wan nabe candle maker.

Do you know some one who loves to sew but needs a little guidance and inspiration? Check out Nana’s Quilt Cottage (35 S. 26th St., nanasquilt cottage.com), which offers a $99 passport that entitles the bearer to an unlimited number of in-store and online classes between Jan. 1 and March 30.

Nana’s offers at least six to nine classes every week that will help your giftee learn to make quilts, bags and garments. And passport members receive 10 percent off on notions and supplies for their chosen classes.

Are you feeling inspired? Then it’s time to find the perfect class, learn new skills and start tackling that gift list.

No matter what you bake, build, pour, paint or sew this holiday season, your friends and family will be thrilled to receive a gift made with your time, talent and love.

Bulletin file photos

Cortney Smith prepares ingredients for an evening class at Gather Food Studio.

Sarah Freeman of Skye Candle Co. is ready to help people learn her craft.

Manitou Made

By Ralph Routon board chair, Creative Alliance Manitou Springs

F our years into its fruitful existence, the Manitou Made brand ing project clearly has morphed from a simple idea to solidify ing its place, its identity and its still-developing potential across the Manitou Springs business community.

Manitou Made began in 2018 as a collaborative project of the Manitou Springs Creative District (now operating as Creative Alliance Manitou Springs, or CRANE), the Manitou Springs Chamber of Com merce and the Leadership Pikes Peak Sig nature Class of 2019.

The brand gives local merchants, mak ers and entrepreneurs an online site where they can sell their original creations, goods and services that are unique to the Manitou area, in addition to signage for sellers to mark their products and offer ings in-store.

“We believe the Manitou Made brand fits best on a tag attached to something uniquely offered to you — a work of art, an expertly delivered service, an unforgettable Manitou experience,” said Becca Sickbert, Creative Alliance executive director.

And because it’s online, Manitou Made is open and available not just to local res idents but to people far beyond Manitou city limits. Many merchants also have a brick-and-mortar presence.

Positive numbers tell the story of how far the program has come, especially in the two years since ManitouMade.com became reality in November 2020.

As of Nov. 8, with two of the busiest months remaining in 2022, the market place had facilitated double-digit growth compared to 2021, with total orders up 40 percent and products sold up by a whop ping 67 percent. In its first two years, the site has driven more than $40,000 in sales, more than 900 orders processed and 1,862 items or services purchased.

“We’re proud of that success, but sales were only part of the consideration in developing the 2020 Mani tou Made’s strategic plan for the website,” Sickbert said.

“The project goals, in order, were: 1. To create a cohesive learn ing community; 2. Showcase people and products; 3. Launch a sustainable site; and finally, 4. To facilitate sales and marketing.”

It was an effort to make technology more accessible to an

intergenerational business community, Sickbert added, and to make ecommerce more attainable and understandable in a world of rapidly changing expectations and public health guidelines.

“We built the platform to showcase the creativity of our com munity and to allow for maximum flexibility,” Sickbert said. “Though the website is heavily inspired by Etsy, each seller cus tomizes the options to work for their production cycles and indi vidual products.”

Some stores ship out of state and others limit their sales to local pickup. Still other sellers send traffic to their own websites for check-out if they have ecommerce capabilities.

In-store, look for the black and white tags that indicate a locally made item. Online, everything listed directly supports local businesses and artists.

Online auctions, such as the Manitou Art Center’s recent Big Loud Silent Auc tion, offer local nonprofits and merchants a way to use the site for promotion and auction management. New features for sellers on the platform are funded in part by the Manitou Arts, Culture, and Heri tage initiative.

Best-selling items include:

• Books: “Love Songs of Middle Time” by C.H. Rockey;

• Food and beverage: herb focaccia and steel-cut multigrain bread;

• Experiences: Bread-baking classes and tickets to the Silent Disco and Emma Crawford Coffin Races; and

• Art as a one-of-a-kind category.

The website offers artwork from local galleries such as Commonwheel Artists Co-op and the Rockey Art Museum. You’ll find intricate jewelry and fun stickers from K8e Orr’s Jibwa Studio, jewelry and glass wall/table/wearable pieces from Jannine Scott’s J9 Glass studio and elegant jewelry from Wieshuber Jewelers.

And for those wanting to avoid buying more “things” as gifts, how about giving experiences?

Your friends and family members can learn to bake bread, make candles or learn immersion dyeing of fabrics through the expert instruction of local textile artist Melanie Audet. Or invest in health and wellness with guided meditation, aromatherapy or sound session from Echo Studio. Prices range by experience, starting at $35.

— far more now than just a brand

Courtesy images

Illustration from C.H. Rockey’s book, “Love Songs of Middle Time.”

Jannine Scott, a Manitou Art Center studio artist, creates a variety of pieces in glass.

Positive numbers tell the story of how far the program has come.

Iron Springs Chateau continues holiday tradition

By Jack Elder

Audiences have been booing the vil lain and cheering the hero at the Iron Springs Chateau Dinner Theater for more than 60 years, after a hearty old-fashioned meal, of course, and before being regaled with a vaudeville-style holiday olio.

This year, in lieu of a melodrama, an original hilarious holiday murder mystery is being performed. Jolene Howard wrote “A Very Dickens Murder” and will direct. Built in 1880, the beautiful and historic Iron Springs Chateau was originally an open air pavilion that housed the Ute Iron Spring. The chateau has been a remarkably enduring physical, cultural and commer cial feature of Manitou Springs for almost all of the city’s history.

Rebekah and Brian Ratterree and Lori and Dolores Adams-Miller purchased the chateau almost 10 years ago.

Rebekah Ratterree said that her favorite aspect of the chateau and the theater is

“its resiliency. This business has been self-sustaining for a very long time and has managed to sur vive through an awful lot of chaos over the last 140 years.

“It’s truly remarkable when you think about it.”

The murder mystery is a fun adventure that moves from room to room while the audience questions the players and helps the detective get to the bottom of the nefar ious shenanigans. One person who cor rectly identifies the murderer wins a prize.

The show accompanies a table-filling three-course meal. Guests can choose from traditional pot roast, herb-roasted chicken or baked salmon, along with mashed pota toes and gravy, country green beans, rice pilaf, dinner rolls and a fruit cobbler.

The evening also includes a cocktail

hour, sing-along caroling and an ugly sweater contest.

“A Very Dickens Murder” runs Fridays and Saturdays Dec. 9, 10, 16 and 17, and Friday, Dec. 23.

The theater is at 444 Ruxton Ave.

Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 6:30. Price (includes dinner, mystery, tax and gratuity) is $60 per person.

Tickets available at ironspringschateau.com. Information: 719-685-5104.

The chateau’s actors love to entertain audience members during the holidays.

Manitou Springs has a rich holiday heritage

By Bridgett Harris

anitou Springs is a town that fully embraces every holiday. From ghost walks and coffin capers to fruitcake tosses and Mardi Gras beads, the community has a reputation as the place to be when it comes to celebrations.

M

Winter holidays are no exception; the streets are lined with lights, Christmas carols waft through the streets and every shop seems to find a way to celebrate in its own special way. With so much action in modern times, it might surprise residents to learn that most of the holiday traditions they hold dear aren’t very old at all.

How did the town celebrate in its early years? What traditions have endured into the present day?

Let’s start from the beginning — or close enough to it, anyway.

In 1900, the Manitou Springs Journal noted that holidays in Manitou were “never riotously gay,” due to a signifi cant number of residents traveling back to eastern homes. The celebration of Christmas was largely personal, with most of the public festivities conducted by the Congregational and Episcopal churches.

Residents hosted dinners, put up trees if their traditions called for it and welcomed home children, grandchil dren and other relatives to celebrate the holiday. Some of the residents journeyed to other areas of the coun try to visit loved ones left behind in the quest to settle the West.

Writer L.C. Wahl, in a retrospec tive published in 1936, described lavish parties in the Broadmoor area and North End (it wasn’t old back then) hosted by several of the region’s 30 millionaires.

Much of the rest of the population, however, spent the holiday season roaming the Pikes Peak region via bicycle visiting friends, loved ones and a whole lot of bars. Favorite stops of note were “Jake Becker’s place,” Fatty Rice’s roadhouse and a hotel in Fountain with 25-cent all-you-could-eat chicken dinners.

Wahl was enthusiastic about the season, noting just how priv ileged the younger generation was to live unharnessed to foreign war and bloodshed. It was a privilege that would end just five years later, almost to the day. On December 8, 1941, the United States declared war on Japan after Pearl Harbor was bombed. Three days later, the U.S. would fully enter the European Theater in response to Germany’s declaration of war.

Manitou may have been a small town far away from World War II battlefields, but citizens still lived under the shadow of war — even during the holidays. People regularly conducted blackout drills to prepare in case of a nighttime air raid by hostile forces.

During blackouts, the lights of every building, streetlamp and home would be turned off, effectively making the city invisible from above. In a 1942 brief detailing one such Blackout Monday in mid-December, patrols moved through town to find stray lights people had left on and extinguish fires in woodstoves and fire places. In case of an actual air raid, wardens were authorized to unlock doors or even break windows to turn off lights.

Manitou Springs residents endured the same changes that war brought to towns both big and small all across the coun try, sending their children to war when called, rationing when asked and making the best of what was available. When the war ended in 1945, hope returned to a weary country and her surviving soldiers.

In the years after World War II, Manitou Springs began to flour ish, and that included holiday celebrations.

Shirley Wade, Manitou Springs Heritage Center board member, moved here in 1948 and recalls how the Navajo Hotel, known today as the Barker House, would play Christmas carols and religious hymns for passersby.

She remembers walking home to the gentle strains of those carols one magical evening when the city was blanketed in snow and the light from above cast a blue glow over every thing in sight.

“I was a teenager then, and I was all alone on the street, and it was the most beautiful scene I had ever seen,” Wade says.

She noted that Manitou was fairly quiet in the off-season during her early years. Tourists were in short supply in the winter, although the bars did brisk business with the locals.

It seems that some things never change. Hotels closed up, local attractions took a much-needed pause and the town would resem ble quieter years, albeit without the bands of marauding cyclists.

In 1951, Wade’s uncle acquired the Cliff House and began open ing it during the winter to house enlisted personnel when the new Air Force base opened in Colorado Springs. Evenings tended to get a bit rowdy during the holidays, particularly after her uncle decided to re-open the hotel bars.

The 1960s saw Manitou hit its winter stride, especially when it came to decking the halls. The Manitou Springs Kiwanis Club spearheaded the effort, launching an annual house-decorating contest in 1962 judged by a Fort Carson lieutenant colonel, an Air Force Academy major and the Kiwanis Club president.

Residents spiffed up their homes in true lighted splendor and the club organized sight-seeing tours to allow local “shut-ins and

Courtesy of the Manitou Springs Heritage Center

The Dec. 25, 1953, issue of the Pikes Peak Journal was full of festive spirit.

The city itself was not exempt from holiday trappings. Pine branches, lights, stars and bells would adorn the utility poles and buildings — one of the large wooden bells still exists, safely tucked away in the Heritage Center archives.

Santa would visit the Town Clock, riding in on the city’s fire truck and handing out hundreds of bags of goodies donated by the Kiwanis Club, fire department and the Manitou Hut of the American Legion.

Many of these traditions still continue today, although they might look a bit different than they did decades ago. What hasn’t changed is the town’s commitment to community and maintaining its small-town feel. Perhaps Wahl said it best in the close of his 1936 article:

“As to what Christmas may bring forth 40 years hence is a matter for conjecture, but the spirit of good cheer and happy thought will no doubt continue to brighten the Yuletide period in years to come as in years that have passed.”

The reporter would like to extend her deepest thanks to Shirley Wade for her immense help in researching this story, as well as the Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Kiwanis Club for curating and archiving so much of the town’s history.

Courtesy of the

The Dec. 25, 1953, issue of the Pikes Peak Journal was full of festive spirit.

Manitou Springs Heritage Center

The 1960s saw Manitou hit its winter stride.

oldsters” the chance to view the decorated houses.

Holiday Events

ONGOING

Holiday Brass and Wonderland Dancers: Come experience the magic of Christmas in Manitou Springs. Every Sunday until Christmas (plus Saturday, Dec. 24), musicians stroll along Man itou Avenue playing Christmas carols while dancers perform around downtown, bringing Christmas magic to all. Noon-2 p.m. Information: manitousprings.org.

Holiday Market: Commonwheel Artists Co-op welcomes art lovers to the annual holiday market, featuring handcrafted, unique items from local artists and artisans. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. every day through Dec. 30. 102 Cañon Ave. Information: commonwheel.com or 719-685-1008.

Photos with Santa: Bring the whole family for portraits with Saint Nick at his Bancroft Park cabin, 2408 W. Colorado Ave. $17 first photo, $7 each additional photo. 1-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 23. Information: shopoldcolorado city.com or 719-344-8537.

Dorothy through a time twister to the Land of Oz. There, with the assistance of the scarecrow, tin man and lion, she must find a way to return to Cripple Creek before Christmas is can celed. Through Dec. 31. $24. Butte Theater, 139 E. Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek. Information: buttetheater.com or 719-689-6402.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 7

Winter Wonderland Concert: The Manitou Springs Middle School Orchestra presents holiday favorites. Free. 6:30 p.m., District 14 Auditorium, 110 Pawnee Ave.

FRIDAY, DEC. 9

Winter Concert: Singers from the Manitou Springs Middle School and High School choirs perform. Free. 7 p.m., District 14 Auditorium, 110 Pawnee Ave.

SATURDAY, DEC. 10

Breakfast with Santa: Share a delicious breakfast including eggs, ham and pancakes with the Jolly Old Elf. Sponsored by the Manitou Springs Kiwanis Club. $7 for adults, $4 for kids (4-12); 3 and younger eat free. 8-10 a.m. Community Congre gational Church, 103 Pawnee Ave. Information: www.manitou kiwanis.org.

Electric Safari at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Bring your kiddos to the zoo after dark to enjoy thousands of lights, cool animals, warming fires and other festivities. Santa will be there, too! Advance tickets required. Dec. 9-23 and 25-Jan. 1. 4350 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road. Information: cmzoo.org or 719-633-9925.

Gold Camp Christmas Headframe Lighting: Giant mine headframes will light up the night sky around Vic tor and Cripple Creek. Weekend evenings through Jan. 14, and every night Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day, weather permitting. The best views are from Highway 67 and Teller County Roads 81 and 83. Information and self-guided tour maps: www.visitcripplecreek.com/event/ holiday-headframe-lighting.

“The Wizard of Oz, Colorado”: It’s December 1899 in Cripple Creek. Dorothy Gunnison, a young schoolteacher, invites famed genius Nikola Tesla to speak to her class. But while demonstrating an invention, Tesla accidentally sends

Christmas Craft Fair: Holiday shopping with altitude — find the perfect gift at this creative craft fair. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cripple Creek Parks and Recreation Arena, 128 E. Bennett Ave. Cripple Creek. Information: ccparksandrecreation.com or 719-689-3514.

Front Porch Singers: The a capella quartet will stroll through downtown, regaling shoppers with holiday cheer. Noon-2 p.m.

Christmas Begins Parade: Spectators can watch the Christ mas parade right in the heart of Manitou. A free and fun event for all ages. Bring unwrapped toys to donate to Toys for Tots. Starts at 6 p.m.

SUNDAY, DEC. 11

Woodland Park Symphony Christmas Concert: Embrace the spirit of the season with Christmas tunes. Matinee 4 p.m.; evening 6:30 p.m. Free, but reservations required. Ute Pass Cultural Center, 210 E. Midland Ave. Information: www. woodlandparkwindsymphony.com or 719-687-2210.

The Manitou & Pikes Peak Railway engine at the corner of Manitou Avenue and El Paso Boulevard wears its holiday finery.

SATURDAY, DEC. 17

Caroling and Storytelling: Sing throughout downtown Man itou Springs starting at 1 p.m., then hear Christmas stories and sing some more starting at 3 p.m. Free. Community Congrega tional Church, 103 Pawnee Ave. Information: www.manitou church.org.

Santa Story: Enjoy a holiday tale from the Jolly Old Elf. 1 p.m. Manitou Springs Library, 515 Manitou Ave. Information: ppld.org.

Front Porch Singers: The a capella quartet will stroll through downtown, regaling shoppers with holiday cheer. Noon-2 p.m.

SATURDAY, DEC. 24

Holiday Brass and Wonderland Dancers: Come experience the magic of Christmas in Manitou Springs. Musicians stroll along Manitou Avenue playing Christmas carols while dancers perform around downtown bringing Christmas magic to all. Noon-2 p.m. manitousprings.org.

Santa Arrives at the Town Clock: Watch for the vintage fire truck bearing St. Nicholas to the corner of Cañon and Manitou avenues. 6-7 p.m. Information: Manitou Springs Fire Depart ment, 719-685-1444.

Christmas Eve with Community Congregational Church: Gather for music and a candlelight service. Offering will go toward Westside CARES. 6:30 p.m. 103 Pawnee Ave. Informa tion: manitouchurch.org or 719-685-5255.

SUNDAY, DEC. 25

Community Holiday Dinner: Gather with old friends and make new ones while enjoying this annual tradition hosted by the Salvation Army. City Hall, 606 Manitou Ave. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Information: Andy Wells, 719-459-1630; to volunteer, call 719-636-5277.

Christmas with Community Congregational Church: Gather for carols and stories. 10 a.m. 103 Pawnee Ave. Informa tion: manitouchurch.org or 719-685-5255.

The Loop is located in beautiful Manitou Springs, Colorado at the base of Pikes Peak. We offer a variety of award-winning margaritas and Baja-style Mexican food in a casual setting.

We have two bars and three dining rooms to accommodate parties of any size. We specialize in receptions, family reunions and work functions. Call us today to reserve space for your event.

SATURDAY, DEC. 31

AdAmAn Fireworks: The hardy hikers will fire off five pyro technics from the Pikes Peak summit in honor of the “Frozen Five” at 9 p.m. The really big show happens at midnight.

The Loop has won a variety of awards for our margaritas, green chili and we were voted one of the best neighborhood restaurants in Manitou Springs. The Loop is known for our Molcajetes, Green Chili and Grande Margaritas.

(719) 685-9344 theloopmanitou.com

Audrey Julian Photography

Bulletin file photo

Fireworks illuminate Pikes Peak on New Year’s Eve a few years ago.

For a weekend getaway, think Ski Cooper

Colorado boasts the highest city in North America, and at 10,152 feet, Leadville offers abundant winter activities to experience outdoor fun in a genuine and historic mountain town. Ski Cooper, a ski “resort” without the pretense, is a great place to take a muchneeded break in the mountains, surrounded by majestic beauty.

There are no lift lines, high prices, high-rise condos or hard man-made “snow.”

Cooper boasts wide-open spaces in a family-friendly and afford able environment. Five lifts serve 64 ski runs at Cooper spanning 480 lift-served acres. Get the best deals by purchasing your tickets online at least 48 hours in advance. Snow conditions may cause schedule changes; check www.skicooper.com for details.

What’s new:

• Cooper is adding a special “Snowcat, Cookies & Cocoa” event over the Christmas holidays. Families can take a Snowcat ride, followed by cookie decorating, hot cocoa and mulled wine at the mountain Ridgeview Cafe. Schedule TBD (check website for details); and

• Over the holidays, Cooper is adding a kids program for ages 3-5 to add to its existing ages 6 and older programming.

What’s returning to Ski Cooper for 2022-2023:

• $30 Thursdays will return for January and February. Cooper will offer $30 day passes (when you buy online at least 48 hours in advance), $30 rentals, $30 off of Ski School lessons and live music;

• The ski area plans to celebrate 10th Mountain Day and mili tary heroes on Friday, Feb. 24; and

• Yurt Dinners will return this season with a schedule yet to be determined.

Chicago Ridge Snowcat Tours will return with a slightly modified format. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, Cooper will offer halfday tours, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Operating dates will be dependent on snowpack conditions on the ridge.

This will be an add-on to a season pass or day pass and must be purchased in-person at the Guest Services window on the day of skiing. Visitors can choose to purchase either the morning or afternoon session, with each session limited to 12 participants.

A snowy day in Manitou Springs

The family-friendly ski area offers tons of fun, just 2.5 hours from Manitou Springs.

Courtesy of Ski Cooper

The Town Clock and its tree are decorated with a skiff of snow.

Photo by Rhonda Van Pelt

North Pole ready to provide day of fun

By Rhonda Van Pelt

When you think “holiday fun,” you think of Santa Claus, right? And where better to find him than at the North Pole-Santa’s Workshop?

Since 1956, this attraction has been spreading holiday cheer on the northeast slope of Pikes Peak.

Just head up Ute Pass to Cascade and watch for Santa standing atop the red and white Peppermint Slide. Most likely, he’s taking a break from supervising the elves as they build toys in the workshop.

Before you leave home, make sure you dress in layers and wear comfy shoes. That’s even more important when you’ll be taking a whirl on one of the North Pole rides.

All are designed and main tained to keep safety first, while also providing lots of thrills and laughs for families.

Any amusement park worthy of the name will have a carou sel, Ferris wheel and Tilt-a-Whirl. But the North Pole offers rides that are out of the ordinary.

The entire family can go for a spin in an antique car and try the Candy Cane Coaster, the Christmas Tree, Dive Bomb ers, Granny Bugs, the Kiddie Combo, San ta’s Sleigh Ride (new!), Mini Himalaya, the afore-mentioned Peppermint Slide, Rocket Ride, Scrambler, Sky Ride, Space Shuttle, the train, Tubs of Fun and the Whip Ride.

Children (no infants) can take the boat ride, Kid die Commander, Kiddie Wheel, Midge-O-Racers, motorcycles (a carousel with cycles instead of horses), pony carts, Rodeo Rider and Star Fighters rides.

Infants, who must be with an adult 16 or older, can ride in the antique car and the carousel, and enjoy the Christ mas Tree, the Ferris wheel, Granny Bug, Kiddie Combo, Peppermint Slide, Sky Ride and the train.

Information: northpole colorado.com/rides.

Current owner Tom Hag gard, son of the couple who built the North Pole-Santa’s Workshop in the 1950s, does have a favorite among the rides: the carousel, which was built in 1919.

He loves to watch kids have fun, just as he did while growing up at the amusement park.

When hunger pangs hit, stop by the Carousel Café. The menu includes corn dogs, chicken nuggets and burgers guar anteed to keep kids happy. Finish off lunch with hot chocolate, cider, ice cream and funnel cakes.

Visitors are welcome to bring their own food to eat in the picnic pavilion just inside the entrance, but please leave the

barbeque grills and alcohol at home.

Afterward, walk off lunch by browsing Santa’s Village. Seven unique shops offer a variety of toys, souvenirs and Christmas items.

Of course, Santa will find time in his busy schedule to hear wishes and even pose for photos with kids of all ages.

IF YOU GO

The North Pole-Santa’s Workshop is open 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (rides close at 4:15) Thursdays-Mondays, weather permitting.

Closed for season starting Dec. 25. Peak days (weekends and holiday weeks): general admission is $30 per person for 3 years and older, and age 2 and younger get in free (online ticket required). Online hourly reservations are required and tickets will be released weekly. Non-peak days: free park entry and ride wristbands (purchased at front gate) cost $30 per person aged 3 to 59, and military and senior discounts are available; no online reservations required.

5050 Pikes Peak Highway, Cascade. Information: northpolecolorado.com or 719-684-9432.

Santa will find time in his busy schedule to hear wishes.

Courtesy image

Santa is just a big kid at heart, after all.

"Good vibes, friendly staff. Above and beyond customer service. 5 stars with out a doubt. I will definitely be returning with friends." - Brittany S

Head Space, (Smoke Shop & Boutique) 30 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs

O Christmas tree! How to cut your own

By Rhonda Van Pelt

If cutting your own Christmas tree is a beloved family tradition — or you’d like it to be —check www.recreation.gov/tree-permits for information about how to obtain a permit and where you can use it.

Permits are available for the Pike and San Isabel National For est that allow cutting through Dec. 18. They cost $20 (one tree) and are limited to five per household.

Permits are valid only in the district for which they were purchased. They are not transferable and can’t be extended from one year to the next.

Print your Christmas tree permit and make sure it’s visi ble on your dashboard.

The closest area is the Pikes Peak Ranger District, which offers specific cutting areas. They are northwest of Woodland Park in the north Divide area, off Highway 67 north of Woodland Park and off Teller County 78/Painted Rocks Road.

Maps showing public and private land boundaries are available online and at district offices.

Be sure to print the map when you purchase your permit and use it to navigate to the tree-cutting areas. Signs will be posted.

If you’d like to roam further for your tree, here are other areas:

• The South Platte Ranger District, near Denver. Permits in this district apply to specific cutting areas (Buffalo Creek, Sugar Creek and Camp Fickes);

• The South Park Ranger District, near Fairplay;

• The Salida Ranger District, near Salida and Buena Vista;

• The Leadville Ranger District, near Leadville; and

• The San Carlos Ranger District, near Cañon City, Westcliffe and La Veta.

Before you head out, check the latest weather conditions and research seasonal road closures. Annual closures that took effect Dec. 1 include Lodgepole Flats near Leadville, the Four Mile travel management area near Buena Vista and the Greenhorn area near Westcliffe.

Bring a hand saw — no chainsaws or power saws are allowed. Pets are welcome, but must be under control at all times.

Cell service may be spotty or unavailable. Bring a map and tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return. Don’t rely on GPS, because it may not be up-to-date with Forest Service roads and batteries die quickly in cold weather.

Dress warmly and take extra dry clothes. Pack food and water, as well as an overnight survival kit, in case you become stranded.

Park so that traffic can get by safely, and do not block gates.

Don’t cut on private land, in wilderness areas, designated campgrounds or tree plantations. Don’t cut in or within 200 feet

of developed areas, including picnic areas, recreation areas, trail heads, scenic overlooks and administrative sites.

Christmas tree cutting is prohibited in timber sale areas, so don’t cut any tree marked with colored paint, flagging or signs. And don’t cut trees within 100 feet of any waterway, forest road or trail.

You may cut a tree up to 15 feet tall or 6 inches in diameter at ground level.

Any species of tree may be cut; however, bristlecone pines are not recommended because they release a lot of sap, which can be a fire hazard.

If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height. Trees must be cut within 6 inches of the ground.

Choose a tree from a densely forested area, which will give the remaining trees more space to grow.

Forest roads may not be plowed. A four-wheel drive vehicle or tire chains may be needed to access some areas. Skis or snowshoes may also be used.

Be cautious on icy and snowy roads and don’t cause damage by creating ruts on muddy roads.

The funds from Christmas tree permits purchased through the recreation.gov system will go back to the participating forest through Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act funding requirements.

Anyone cutting or removing trees from a national forest with out a valid permit is subject to a fine of up to $5,000 and/or six months in prison.

Information: www.recreation.gov/tree-permits, search for Pike and San Isabel National Forest.

HELPFUL CUTTING TIPS

Tools to bring with you include: a handsaw, gloves, warm boots, a measuring tape to ensure you select a tree that fits in your home, a tarp to sit on and/or to move your tree once it’s cut, and rope or straps to secure your tree to your vehicle.

Cut the stump at ground level. Cut any live branches off the stump, and cut off and scatter any dead branches on the lower portion of the tree.

Carry your tree carefully out of the woods. Dragging it will rub off needles and bark.

If the tree is too big to transport inside your vehicle, wrap it in canvas to prevent wind damage.

Once home, cut the bottom inch or so off the trunk and place the freshly cut trunk in a bucket of water. Replenish water frequently.

If storing your tree outside for a few days before bringing it inside, keep it in a cool area protected from the wind and too much sun, such as the north or east side of your house.

shutterstock.com

Activities to make the most of school breaks

I

t’s winter break and parents everywhere are wondering — what will we do during the time off?

Here’s a rundown of activities that will help your family make the most of the extra time together. Be sure to check websites or call to inquire about health and safety precautions.

KIDS-ONLY ACTIVITIES

When you need to get some work done or want engaging activ ities for your kids, check out these programs where they’ll have an adventure without you.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road. Winter Break Camps, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 26-28 and 30. This year’s theme is Winter Around the World — campers will learn how ani mals prepare for winter. Advance registration required. As of press time, slots were available for third through sixth-grade day camps. Non-members: $65.75/day, members: $60.75/day. Information: www.cmzoo.org/events/winter-break-day-camps.

YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region, Winter Break Camp: Check website for dates. Locations: Southeast YMCA, 2190 Jet Wing Drive; Tri-Lakes YMCA, 17250 Jackson Creek Parkway, Monument; and the Downtown YMCA, 207 N. Nevada Ave. $20/day for kids on a YMCA

For fun and games, head to Theo’s Toys

vintage toys, like an original 1978 copy of the “Battlestar Galactica” board game and, when possible, Mogck’s favorite: mid1990s Micro Machines “Star Wars” Action Fleet toys.

“I usually have some in stock, but

and plentiful. His favorite modern toy is a little more advanced, but no less cool.

“My current favorite is the Turing Tum ble. It is a marble-powered mechanical computer you program. It teaches you how

by shipping delays,” Mogck said.

You can find Theo’s Toys at 934 Man itou Ave., Suite 103, in the Spa Building. Online shopping is available at nerdrule. com and purchases can be shipped all over the United States.

Activities

before & after school plan, $50/day for all oth ers. www.ppymca.org.

Bear Creek Nature Center, 245 Bear Creek Road. Kids’ Morning at Bear Creek, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 10. Enjoy some time to yourself while your child learns about the Ute people and how they used science, math, technology and engineering to provide food for them selves. Members: $20 per child, non-members: $25 per child. Includes vegetarian lunch. Little Wonders: Fox and the Gingerbread Boy, 10-11:15 a.m. and 1-2:15 p.m. Wednes day, Dec. 21. Explore nature with your 2- or 3-year-old. $3 per person, including siblings and adults. See the full calendar of events for the Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers at communityservices.elpasoco.com/ nature-centers.

Who Gives a SCRAP creative re-use cen ter, 810 Arcturus Drive, is hosting Kids Art Camps for ages 4 to 12. They run 1-4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 19, to Thursday, Dec. 22. Cost is $25 per day, and scholarships are available. Registration and information: WhoGivesa SCRAPColorado.com/ourevents.

CityROCK, 21 N. Nevada Ave. Climbing

Camps, 9 a.m.-noon or 12:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Dec. 20 and 30 and Jan. 16. For ages 6 and older. $69 per half-day. climb cityrock.com/indoor-camps.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Options abound for family fun, both indoors and out.

Our area parks have countless oppor tunities for memory-making. Visit a favorite park and use your five senses to notice the changing seasons. Or, get acquainted with a park you and your family haven’t yet visited. Depending on the weather, you could enjoy the play ground, hike, bike, scooter, ski, sled, hop on rocks, climb trees, play at the creek or make snow angels or sculptures.

Let your kids take the lead, set the pace and pick the activity; you never know what adventure they’ll take you on. Games like hide and seek on the trail are fun for older kids and nature scavenger hunts — searching for colors, textures, shapes, sounds, smells, plants and ani mals — is fun for all ages.

The Pikes Peak Library District offers free programs for all ages at its 15 loca tions. ppld.librarymarket.com/events/ month/2022/12.

Lane in Fountain, will offer Nature Hikes with Santa. After an inter active reading of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” Santa will show little ones what gifts nature gives us. Afterward, listen to seasonal songs from the band Peppergrass while making paper snow flakes. 10-11:30 a.m. and 1-2:30 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 10 and 17. $4 members, $5 nonmembers.

Arts and crafts of all types are also an enriching way to spend time together. Maybe you’ll find an art class on You Tube to take together. Or you finally start the family band you’ve dreamed of. Board games, perhaps with creative or cooperative rules, are also a fantastic way to bond with kids and elicit giggles.

The Manitou Art Center, 513 Manitou Ave., is hosting opportunities to decorate ceramic holiday ornaments using under glaze and glaze. One-time two-hour classes are available Thursdays, Dec. 8 or 15, and Saturdays, Dec. 10 or 17. $20, plus $5 materials fee. Information: manitouartcenter.org or 719-685-1861.

Don’t forget to get your kids involved with decorating for the holidays — their creativity may inspire new traditions.

Christmas Begins Parade

Fountain Creek Nature Center, 320 Peppergrass

Spectators can watch the Christmas parade right in the heart of Manitou. A free and fun event for all ages. Bring unwrapped toys to donate to Toys for Tots. Starts at 6 p.m.

Bulletin file photo

A few winter photography tips from a pro

Q&A with Bryan Oller

In your opinion/experience, can people capture good win ter photos with their phones?

Absolutely! There are tons of camera apps, often available for free, that give you an oppor tunity to put a personal spin on your creativity. My favorite apps to use during those cold and snowy occasions are Tin Type and Reflex. These apps will give you a very nostalgic feel for your imagery. They also help you practice composition and composure.

What phone camera set tings do you recommend?

Of course, you can use whatever setting you want, but I will often leave my filters as is and occasionally switch to black and white camera mode to capture mood and contrast between light and dark.

How about when using a digital single-lens reflex camera?

As a professional photogra pher, I can tell you it’s always worth the risk to give your manual settings a try. Avoid automatic functions — it should be about you. And it’s OK to fail. In fact, fail a lot. But never stop trying new things that make your images unique and worth the time and effort to express yourself.

There are many setting you can use. Maybe try a slow shut ter speed, low ISO to capture snow streaking across your lens. Or try a higher ISO to freeze those falling snowflakes. It really depends on what you’re trying to capture.

If you’re photographing outdoor Christmas lights and want those rich colors, think low ISO and long exposure. Also, bring a tripod and wear lots of layers. You’ll need them!

What are your favorite local places to take winter photos?

You don’t have to go very far to capture a great winter scene — maybe, just down your street! Some of my favorite winter images have happened in my backyard. Imagine a Steller’s jay with its stunning plumage against the backdrop of tree branches covered in snow.

I like urban winter scenes, but I do like heading up to obscure areas such as Colorado Road 77 outside Lake George. That’s where the South Platte River winds through a beautiful valley. You might capture some wildlife to add to your photo.

I also enjoy Bear Creek Park or North Cheyenne Canyon, where I like to capture Helen Hunt Falls surrounded by snow and ice.

Any particular times of day that are best for those locations?

Think early morning light right after a snowfall. Or eve ning when the sun is setting, casting that beautiful glow.

Any tips for photographing Santa Claus?

Santa has the best facial expressions. And that beard can’t be beat. Santa always makes for some great photog raphy. I particularly enjoy cap turing the look on children’s faces. You never know what’s going to happen, but there’s often a great expression on their faces!

What do you advise for taking photos of holiday gatherings?

Photographing indoors with a DSLR is always tricky. I use a detachable flash and try to bounce the light off the ceiling or a wall to soften the flash. Honestly, there are plenty of great phone cameras that do a great job without a flash. Just think about composition and try to capture real moments that aren’t posed. Those are always the best.

What are your tips for photographing wildlife in winter?

Some of the best places to capture wildlife in the winter, locally, are near the foothills where the deer still roam looking for something to munch on. I would recommend checking out the Crystal Hills area, Garden of the Gods or Red Rock Canyon. Your chances are pretty good in these locations.

What suggestions do you have for getting kids involved in photography?

If I know kids (and I do, because I have two) they will try anything. But just learning about basic composition and creativity is most important. Kids don’t need a fancy DSLR. I would suggest letting them use your phone like I did and maybe introduce them to something affordable like the Fuji film Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera. There’s nothing better than seeing your prints instantly happen if you’re a kid.

Bryan Oller caught the photo bug when he was 16 years old, but has been a professional photojournalist since 1998. Before working for Sixty35 Media, the Bulletin’s parent company, he was a staff photographer with The Colorado Springs Gazette and has freelanced with several news organizations including the Associated Press and the Denver Post.

“Never stop trying new things that make your images unique.”

Catching wildlife on the wing is

a

bonus for

your

winter photos.

Snow adds an extra dimension to

a

familiar scene.

Photos by Bryan Oller

Community Congregational Church of Manitou Springs

103 Pawnee Ave., www.manitouchurch. org or 719-685-5255

We hope you feel at home in the good graces of this mountain community church. No matter who you are — no matter where you are along life’s journey — you are welcomed here!

The sanctuary was built in 1880 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For more than a century, people of faith have felt God’s presence in the beauty of the Manitou spirit-infused space, the stained-glass windows, the sacred sounds

of an old pipe organ and through the fel lowship of people who continue to explore and experience the love of Jesus, our Christ.

This church is religiously rooted in the mainline Congregational Protestant church tradition, which is now carried by the United Church of Christ denomina tion. We are a freethinking community of faith, ecumenical in spirit and practice. The Holy Bible remains our guide and inspiration.

Scripture calls us to honor and respect all persons seeking God’s wider love. It is our prayer that you feel welcomed and at home with us, regardless of your current faith

path or even if you have no background or interest in religion! We are truly glad to have you here!

Our goal is to help you feel a connection to LOVE, in whatever way you are able! May blessings follow you always in your pilgrimage of faith. And may love, mercy, forgiveness and hope be with you this and every day!

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

808 Manitou Ave., www.standrews manitousprings.org or 719-685-9259

Following the person of Jesus, his

By Bridgett Harris

thrill and chill Winter activities that

J

ust because winter has arrived doesn’t mean everyone has to hunker down indoors and hibernate until spring. One of the key benefits to living in Colorado is the many surprisingly mild days available for getting outside and enjoying all the Pikes Peak region has to offer.

Getting a daily dose of fresh air, exercise and vitamin D can help beat back the winter blues and create a little respite from the busy holiday season. For tunately, the Westside provides plenty of options for banishing cabin fever.

One of the most convenient and affordable options (free) for exploring the great out doors this winter is right in Manitou’s backyard — the Paul Intemann Memo rial Nature Trail.

Running from Section 16 in Colorado Springs all the way to Barr Trail and the Manitou Incline, the Intemann Trail unlocks access to several of the region’s most popular hiking routes as it weaves through the hills on the west side.

The Manitou portion of the trail offers a pretty easy hike with multiple places to

head quickly and easily into civilization if the weather goes from mild to wild. Hik ers can also travel down the leg that leads to Crystal Valley Cemetery and explore a piece of Manitou’s history, or head up the steep and strenuous Red Mountain Trail above the city for more views.

Hikers should bring adequate water, dress in layers and have a plan for inclement weather, espe cially if they plan a longer jour ney out toward Section 16 or up Barr Trail.

Just east of Manitou Springs near U.S. Highway 24 and Ridge Road, Red Rock Canyon Open Space offers multiple trails that range from easy to moderate, and many are suitable for cross-coun try skiing. The park also features two off-leash areas for your four-legged friends, picnic tables, an open-air pavilion and a bicycle freeride area.

Watch for wildlife around the ponds that remain from a thriving, historic quarry that furnished beautiful red stone for buildings throughout Colorado. Infor mation: redrockcanyonopenspace.org.

For folks who like their outdoor expe riences a little more on the chill side, the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center (1805

N. 30th St., gardenofthegods.com) hosts multiple winter events that allow partic ipants to immerse themselves in nature and get re-centered amidst the chaos of the holiday hustle.

Hiking and mindful meditations aren’t the only ways to enjoy time outside in the winter.

Cycling is another great option for warm winter days and even cold ones — if riders know how to bundle up. There’s no need to actually own a bike to enjoy riding, either.

Snag a PikeRide in Hiawatha Gardens (10 Old Man’s Trail) or from the rack out side the Manitou Pool (202 Manitou Ave.) and cruise around town or take it all the way to Old Colorado City or downtown Colorado Springs via the Midland Trail. Information: www.pikeride.org. Check www.pikeride.org/faqs for pric ing and other important details.

Outdoor adventure doesn’t have to stop when the temps drop. Be opportunistic and take advantage of every warm day.

Bundle up on colder days and find new ways to connect with nature and find a little peace. These outstanding options provide opportunities to get out and play in a variety of ways all winter long.

Photo by Rhonda Van Pelt

Red Rock Canyon, a quick drive from Manitou Springs, is geologically related to Garden of the Gods.

Places of worship (cont.)

words, actions and spirit, walking in the way of love, we provide authentic oppor tunities for people to seek meaning in life and become spiritually active.

We follow a Christian tradition that takes the Bible seriously in reasonable encounter, incorporates tradition and the contemporary in worship, respects the dignity of every person, embracing diversity and invites “you” to the chal lenge of engaging actively in the world’s needs today, especially with our neigh bors struggling with life’s issues.

You are invited!

Sacred Heart Parish

www.sacredheartcos.org or 719-633-8711

Originally, Sacred Heart was a mis sion of the oldest church in the diocese, Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Manitou Springs. Founded in 1888 in Colorado City, it was originally called St. Mary’s. In 1922, architect Thomas MacLaren built a new church in the Spanish Mission style at 2030 W. Colorado Ave., and it was renamed Sacred Heart.

In 1926, the Oblates of Mary Immacu late were invited to assume pastoral duties of Sacred Heart Church and OLPH as a mission. In 1931, Holy Rosary Chapel in Cascade (4435 Holiday Trail) was added to the parish. In 1984, the Congregation of Holy Cross assumed pastoral duties and has served the parish ever since.

The parish’s mission is “to make God known, loved and served.”

OLPH was founded in 1860 and dedicated at its current location, 218 Ruxton Ave., in 1889. The little church burned down and was rebuilt in 1903. A Lourdes Grotto was added a year later. Located halfway up the Ute Pass, Holy Rosary Chapel was built in memory of Thomas and Mary Green Cusack and dedicated in 1931. The chapel is in a Romanesque style using local red rock.

EVENT CALENDAR

Saturday, Dec. 24:

• 4 p.m. Mass at Our Lady of Per petual Help, with caroling beginning at 3:30 p.m.

• 4:30 and 7 p.m. Mass at Sacred Heart Church

• 8 p.m. Mass at Holy Rosary Chapel, with caroling beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 25:

• 7:30, 9 and 11:30 a.m. Mass at Sacred Heart Church

Souls Church

soulschurch.com

Souls Church believes that God is the Master Artist, the Local Church is His Studio and our Collective Lives are His Mosaic. Souls Church is committed to being that mosaic, a unified collective of fragmented people brought together to form a beautiful work of art, shaped con tinuously by the Master Artist.

We are a Bible-believing church in the Evangelical Baptist tradition. We meet at 10 a.m. Sundays at the Manitou Art Cen ter, 513 Manitou Ave. You can learn more about all of our gatherings by visiting our website.

ALSO

New Life Church, Manitou Springs: 455 El Paso Blvd., manitousprings.new lifechurch.org or 719-594-6602.

Christmas Eve service 2-4 p.m.

Timberline Baptist: 512 Cañon Ave., 719-685-4121.

Deer crossing

Even wild animals love to hang out in Manitou Springs in the winter.

Holy Rosary Chapel

Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Photo by Rhonda Van Pelt

Books

help make long winter nights better

Courtesy of your PPLD/ Manitou Springs Library Staff

No matter what building we’re in, Man itou Springs Library’s staff remains dedicated to helping you find the perfect materials to entertain you and help you grow.

This winter, we’re happy to share rec ommendations for newer releases to help you explore your inner landscape, tickle your funny bone or transport you to a fantasy land.

They’ll make great gifts for loved ones — or for yourself, when you need to curl up with a cup of tea and get lost in a book. Here are suggestions from our staff members:

Robin Laborde, associate

“Our Kind of Peo ple” by Carol Wallace

An intriguing tale of life in the Gilded Age. When entrepre neur Joshua Wilcox gambles his fortune on a scheme to build an elevated railroad line, he jeopardizes everything he has worked for — just as his two daughters are set to debut in New York society. As the family confronts their changed status, they find new resources and unexpected friends.

Alexis Nelsen, senior associate

“We Ride Upon Sticks” by Quan Barry Salem, Massachu setts, 1989: The ladies of the Danvers High field hockey team take it upon them selves to end their years-long losing streak by any means necessary, which may include some semi-dark rituals and witch-adjacent methodologies. A story about friendship, femininity and sentient coiffures.

Taryn Malila, manager

“Summer Sons” by Lee Mandelo

After his best friend Eddie dies, Andrew moves to Nashville to start his graduate pro gram at Vander bilt and uncover the truth behind Eddie’s death. In Nashville, Andrew discovers that Eddie left him more of an inheritance than he bargained for. “Summer Sons” is a modern Southern Gothic that combines Appalachian folklore, ghost stories, friendship, love, class issues and street racing.

Ashley Cialone, assistant

“An Elephant in the Garden” by Michael Morpurgo

Set in 1940s Germany, a mother and her two children must escape the bomb ings in Dresden, Germany, as their home is destroyed. Morpurgo dives into a unique story, inspired by true events, in which the family travels across the country with their friend and elephant, Marlene, whom they saved from Dresden Zoo before the bombings began. This is the perfect young-adult fiction book to curl up and read this winter as you follow this family’s journey and meet an unex pected ally along the way.

Karin Swengel, senior associate “Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” by Gabrielle Zevin New York Times bestselling author Gabrielle Zevin weaves a bright, compelling and romantic tale about Mazer and Sadie, two video game designers who have known each other for almost a lifetime. They navigate a relationship that starts with a bond over mazes, become wildly successful game developers and feel an unspoken love that could make or break them.

Emily Baker, senior associate

“Small Spaces” by Katherine Arden

Sixth-grader Olivia Adler loves reading, so when she sees some one throwing away a book, she won’t stand for it. Then, when her class takes a field trip to Misty Valley Farms where the smiling man and his scarecrow servants lurk, she realizes this book could have the clues she needs to outwit them. “Small Spaces” is a spooky middle-grade read that’s sure to give everyone chills.

Makayla Polunci, senior associate

“Among the Beasts and Briars” by Ashley Poston

This is an atmo spheric and dark fairy tale-inspired YA Fantasy Novel. The Kingdom of Aloriya has experienced peace for the past hundred years, but when a new queen is crowned, the cursed woods start to close in. Cerys, a gardener’s daughter, sets out with two strange animal companions, searching for the lady of the wood — Aloriya’s last hope. But the woods are twisted and savage, and it’s going to take all Cerys has just to survive.

Celia Egghart, senior associate

“Crocodile Hungry” by Eija Sumner, illustrated by John Martz

A hungry crocodile is on a search for the perfect snack. When canned ham proves too hard to open and beef jerky gets stuck in his teeth, Crocodile searches for food in some unlikely places. Croco dile’s voice and the zany illustrations leave lots of room for laughs. A perfect read aloud and a story time favorite.

CHECK IT OUT

The Manitou Springs Library is temporarily co-locating with the Manitou Art Center, 513 and 515 Manitou Ave. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. Information: ppld.org/manitou-springs-library or 719-531-6333, ext. 7004.

The pawfect holiday season for your pets

By Laura Ettinger-Harwell

O ur pets are family, and we include them in all aspects of our lives. The holidays are certainly no exception.

If you hand-sewed that Santa Claus costume for your dog or cat or taught your cockatiel to whistle “Silver Bells,” this information is for you. If your beloved pets are on the family holiday card every year, you are in the right place!

But, as any experienced and com mitted pet “parent” knows, with great love and companionship comes great responsibility. That means keeping your furry and feathered friends safe and healthy.

The fast-paced holiday season that begins with Thanksgiving and wraps up sometime around New Year’s Day can be especially trying, and the potential for injury and harm to your pet increases. Fear not — we’ve got you covered!

With a little planning ahead and a bit of education, you can set up your family and your pets for holiday success. Won’t it be nice to have one less stressor this time of year?

The holidays often center around food. We’ve all slipped our dog a lit tle tidbit under the table, but keep in mind that fatty foods are hard for them to digest.

According to the American Veterinary Medicine Association, turkey has been known to cause pancreatitis in dogs. And, it may sound like common sense, but no bones!

That dessert table over there, laden with all the sweetness? Nope. If you want to give your pets a treat, purchase something made just for them.

If you have a feathered friend, one of the biggest dangers is toxic fumes. This can be anything from fumes emit ted by modern cookware to cigarette smoke or perfume.

If you have guests over for the holidays, keep your bird safe. Also, ’tis the season for those fragrant, hol iday-scented candles — keep that bird away from flame and fragrance. And, if a guest brings their dog with them when they visit, house your bird safely in its cage.

You may be considering giving a kitten or puppy as a Christ mas gift. There’s a lot to consider. If you plan to travel during the

holidays, you may need to wait before adopting, according to feline behaviorist Carole Galloway.

“Kittens are pretty dependent on their caregivers for the first year of life. You cannot leave them home alone even with a friend or pet sitter that comes by every day,” she says.

“They are extremely curious and too many dangers lurk around the corner, including toys that aren’t really toys; i.e., tree ornaments, ribbons, even the Christmas tree itself!”

Ditto for Christmas puppies. If you won’t be around to begin training the little one, perhaps wait until after the holidays.

Christmas trees, ornaments, etc., pose the same threat for dogs (young or old) as for cats. Leaving an adult cat or dog to their own devices, even for a short weekend away, is a bad idea.

Holiday plants such as poinsettias, mistletoe and holly can be toxic to cats and dogs. Although they would have to ingest quite a bit of the poinsettia to become ill, no one wants to see their pet in that condition.

Make sure they have plenty of other things — enrichment/project toys, treats or safe chew toys — to gnaw on.

Lastly, whether your cat or dog is a social party animal or likes the quiet life, holiday parties can be very stress ful. Animals in stress are more apt to escape and become lost.

“We can take steps to help them recover quickly and reduce the lasting effects of the experience,” behaviorist Melissa Shandley says. “When people come, I put my cats in their safe room with calming music, toys and treats.

“If friends or family want to visit, I introduce them quietly and not in a big group. I offer toys to make it fun for everyone. They are less stressed and so am I, knowing they won’t be so scared they may try to escape outside.”

If your dog is crate-trained, keeping them in their safe place in a room away from the party means worry-free festivities for you and a calm environment for him or her.

Keeping your beloved furry and feathered family members safe will ensure that the holiday season truly is the most wonder ful time of the year!

Courtesy of Laura Ettinger-Harwell YsaBeaux loves Christmastime with his family.

Courtesy of Laura Ettinger-Harwell Angus the orange tabby loves to curl up under the Christmas tree.