Commentary: MAT Part Deux, equestrian outings and tips for summer

Colorado Springs Business Journal, Jun 6, 2008 by Mike Boyd

Thought the assassination threat e-mail I received a few weeks ago was going to relieve me of this column writing thing, but I guess either the shooter got cold feet or it really was just a scam.

So, since I wasn't prepared to scribble a scintillating storyline this week, perhaps putting in a plug for a couple worthwhile events will suffice.

Manger Avec Trois returns to The Famous on June 15 for Part Deux.

Judeth Shay Burns, Jana Lee Ross and Linda Weise will perform a Father's Day inspired show called "My Heart Belongs to Daddy."

Proceeds from the event benefit the Colorado Springs Conservatory scholarship fund.

The cost of the champagne brunch is $100 per person, and reservations can be made by calling 577-4556.

Also, mark your calendars for the 26th Annual Colorado Summer Classic Horse Shows on June 18-22 and 25-29 at the Norris-Penrose Event Center.

Proceeds from the events, which are free and open to the public, will benefit The Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Foundation and the National Association of Young Riders.

About 450 horses are expected to compete.

For more information, visit www.osmhorseshows.com.

And just in case you're still thinking about getting away from the Springs for a bit of rest and relaxation this summer (despite the cost of gasoline), here are some tips from Jason Alderman of Practical Money Skills for Life.

Flights departing on Saturday and midweek are often cheaper than the days most business travelers fly. Conversely, hotels are often cheaper on weekends, when business travelers have returned home.

Airfares are usually cheaper if you book online rather than by phone or travel agent. Check www.travelzoo.com, www.kayak.com and www.cheaptickets.com to compare fares.

Sign up for e-mail alerts from your favorite airlines, hotel chains and car rental companies -- you'll often find great last- minute deals.

Consider using out-of-the way airports, which frequently offer less expensive flights than major airports.

If you do decide to drive, plan carefully. Get detailed, updated maps so you don't get lost and waste gas. If you're renting a car, consider one with a Global Positioning System that gives driving directions.

If you need help creating a vacation budget, visit www.practicalmoneyskills.com/vacation and take advantage of the free online tools in the summer travel budgeting center.

Guess now that it looks like I won't be meeting my maker any time soon, I should consider getting away for a day or two before winter sets in again -- which means I probably only have about a six-week window, given the crazy weather we've been experiencing.