What's on Your Radar? Kelly Whitcombe

 Our Administrative and Development Assistant, Kelly Whitcombe shares her thoughts after enjoying the closing play for the Fine Arts Center Theatre's 2012-2012 season:

"One of the things I love about working at COPPeR is that I not only get to promote arts and culture to people every day as part of my job--I also get to experience them! I was lucky enough to catch one of the final performances of the musical 'Hairspray' at the Fine Arts Center on June 2nd, both as an attendee and a PeakRadar representative, and I had an amazing time. I've loved 'Hairspray' ever since I first saw the 2007 film remake, but the Fine Arts Center performance was my first opportunity seeing the stage version. Everyone did a fantastic job, though Drew Frady as Edna Turnblad ("pleasantly plump" heroine Tracy Turnblad's mother) stole the show with his/her infectious energy and spirited song and dance numbers. My mom (who came with me as my "happy helper" to pass out Summer Concert Guides and talk up PeakRadar to folks before the show and during intermission) loved it, too, and we sat in the car after the show marveling over the quality of the production and our city's talented thespians. We can't wait to catch another show at the FAC--now, whose arm do I have to twist to get a local performance of 'Rent'? :)"

What to share a story? Email your reviews and anecdotes about a fun time you've had experiencing the art in the Pikes Peak region to brett@coppercolo.org. Your entry will give you a chance to win one of six $50 gift certificates to Downtown Colorado Springs!  

What's on Your Radar? Brett Garman

It’s “Museum Weekend” at PeakRadar.com, and this historical locale has reason to celebrate: Today kicked off the 2012 Gem and Mineral Show at the Western Museum of Mining and Industry (WMMI)…just in time for a full weekend of fun! On Saturday and Sunday, visitors of WMMI will enjoy rock exhibits, gold panning, geological lectures, and how-to demonstrations given to help you become a rock hound.

On Saturday, audiences will get the chance to see the only known operational Stamp Mill in the U.S., hard at work at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Don’t miss this literally thunderous occasion, which happens only twice each year. Plus, check out this awesome display of turquoise works, on hand from the Denver Museum of Nature and Science:

This particular event sticks out in my mind, because I learned from Brad, a WMMI employee about the importance of understanding where our resources are coming from. I was shocked to hear some of the “positive alternatives” I work into my lifestyle might not actually be the best course. I won’t get in to particulars here, but I do suggest that everyone visit WMMI this weekend. You’ll be amazed to learn how many of our everyday products contain rocks (most of which can be found in our own, Pikes Peak backyard)! What a reality check.

And, don’t forget to drop off your email address in our PeakRadar.com bowl at the front desk. Any new subscribers to our weekly PeakRadar Picks eBlast will be entered to win a $50 gift card to be used in Downtown Colorado Springs!

What's on Your Radar? Maria Ryan

A friend and avid user of PeakRadar.com tells us what she loves about the website and the Pikes Peak region, even though she lives in Idaho!

"I receive your PeakRadar email because I am trying to get my husband to get on board and move to Colorado Springs. We currently live in Coeur d Alene, Idaho.  We have been to Colorado Springs many times and I am trying to convince him that this big house and ten acres is just too much - I want a townhouse in the Broadmoore gated estates area.
I am an artist and designer and I [had] three miniature paintings in the El Dorado Gallery's 31st annual miniature art show there. I had work there a long while ago also and won a nice award. Would love to get involved in the art community there...
I see [an outdoor fine arts show] there in July, but it is a two day trip for us - maybe I can get [my husband] to come and at least see it (and look at the houses I like in the area). When guys get older they sure do get stubborn!"

We hope you're able to come join us in Colorado Springs very soon, Maria. Tell your husband he doesn't know what he's missing! 

What to share a story? Email your reviews and anecdotes about a fun time you've had experiencing the art in the Pikes Peak region to brett@coppercolo.org. Your entry will give you a chance to win one of six $50 gift certificates to Downtown Colorado Springs!

What's on Your Radar? Amanda Mountain

During June 2012, we at COPPeR will celebrate PeakRadar.com's 5th birthday! Aw, they grow up so fast. We want to hear Your Thoughts about a fun experience you've had while exploring art and culture in El Paso and Teller Counties.
Here, Amanda Mountain, Regional Director/Station Manager at Rocky Mountain PBS tells us a little bit about a recent theater experience:

"It had been a few months since I had gone to see a Theatre d’Art production so we decided to check out Spanish Tragedy earlier in June. I had actually seen the play produced years ago in a small theatre in London and really enjoyed it, so I had high expectations. I have to say, I was impressed! The acting was terrific. The lighting and music near perfect. And I loved the interpretation of the characters, which reminded me of what a great job Theatre d’Art has done of creating their own “signature vibe” that comes across in whatever they do. I can’t wait to see what they do next."

What to share a story? Email your reviews and anecdotes about a fun time you've had experiencing the art in the Pikes Peak region to brett@coppercolo.org. Your entry will give you a chance to win one of six $50 gift certificates to Downtown Colorado Springs!