Author: Kelly Hayes The Denver Gazette
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Don’t toss those paper bags: Here are 9 clever ways to reuse them
Last year, Colorado implemented a statewide ban on single-use plastic bags. My kitchen has seen the impact of the ban in one way: stacks of paper bags (I’m bad at remembering my reusables!). But, there are ways to get use out of those paper bags outside of recycling. Here’s a list: Gift wrap No need…
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Red light therapy: Skincare treatment trends online and around Colorado Springs
You may have seen it while scrolling your feed or looking for a spa day. A Jason-like mask beaming red light on the face resting beneath. Or maybe you saw an ad of a person in a booth, smiling as they bask in crimson brightness. While red light therapy has been used for decades in…
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Pet psychic: Local medium wants to connect people with pets
MONUMENT • Sitting in Rachael Ortega’s office, surrounded by crystals and crosses, is Allison McPike. Ortega is facing the young woman across from her desk, a pencil in hand and a blank notepad resting flat. A mutual friend referred McPike to Ortega, a psychic medium. But McPike isn’t here to speak to a loved one…
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Pikes Pick: Summer concert series at Drive-In Tasty Freeze starts
Drive-In Tasty Freeze has kicked off its summer concert series, featuring live performances throughout the season on Thursday nights. The free shows make for a great evening with some sweet ice cream and live music. facebook.com/DriveInTastyFreeze — Kelly Hayes, The Gazette
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Rainbows to Renaissance: Colorado festivals this weekend and beyond
With summer in full swing, it’s festival season. From celebrating rodeos and renaissance, parades and pride, this weekend is packed with festivities. Pikes Peak Pride Parade and Festival (10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, 215 S. Tejon St.; free) Pikes Peak Pride will host its annual festival and parade in honor…
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Pikes Pick: DIA provides free vehicle help if you’re ever in a pickle
If you’re ever having car problems at DIA (like if your car won’t start), the airport provides 24/7 assistance, including free jump-starts. You might think you won’t need it, but if you do, call 303-342-4650. — Kelly Hayes, The Gazette
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A 2025 guide to the colorful and curious summer festivals of Colorado
From wacky to downright weird, Colorado is full of unique summer festival traditions. While some celebrate the state’s Old West heritage, others stem from stranger histories. Here are some of Colorado’s most colorful summer festivals. FIBArk June 12-15, Salida Since 1949, whitewater enthusiasts have gathered in Chaffee County to race on the Arkansas River. “First…
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Colorado Springs cornhole center welcomes amateurs, professionals alike
Set in a large, open warehouse-like space, several pairs of cornhole boards rest, ready to be played. In one corner, a large “Corn Holio” flag is draped along the wall. References to the popular lawn game are scattered throughout the venue. As one of Colorado Springs’ only permanent indoor cornhole alleys, Dart Bags hosts novices…
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New mobile vet service brings care home to Colorado Springs pet owners
A new model of veterinary care is hoping to improve access in Colorado Springs. Coined the Roaming Veterinary Team, this new mobile service helps pet owners maintain routine care for their animals. After launching at the end of March, the need was clear: The first month, the team saw about 50 patients; this month, they…
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Pikes Pick: Denver to host Outside Festival and Summit
For outdoor lovers, this is the weekend to celebrate. Denver will be hosting its second annual Outside Festival and Summit, featuring music, films, speakers, gear and demos all revolving around the great outdoors. festival.outsideonline.com — Kelly Hayes, The Gazette





