Daily editionWednesday, January 7th, 2026
Good morning, Colorado Springs.
The Daily Colorado Springs Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 7th of January.
Community
Aquapod Farm in southeast Colorado Springs is set to open on Jan. 10 using a closed water system to recycle fish waste into nutrients for fresh lettuce.
The grand opening at the Family Success Center (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) will include guided tours and free sprouts.
KOAA News5Read more
Islamic Society of Colorado Springs is obtaining permits to build southern Colorado’s first dedicated masjid at 7610 Maverick Road; the 14,680 sqft worship and education center is expected to complete its first phase in February 2027 + the nonprofit has begun fundraising efforts.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Culture
Local food journalist Matthew Schniper (the 'gastro-diplomat') now joins KRCC monthly to share his Side Dish newsletter covering new dining spots and updates on local restaurants.
He encourages residents to support independent eateries early in the week to boost the city’s evolving culinary scene.
Colorado Public RadioRead more
Economy
Colorado Springs Utilities is starting energy-wise rates in the new year for longtime customers.
Those who received a 30-day notice will soon pay higher electricity rates during peak hours (5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays) while enjoying lower off-peak prices.
11 NewsRead more
Pikes Peak Workforce Center announced that companies in El Paso and Teller counties can apply for $250,000 in funds to train employees in sectors such as healthcare and IT.
Employers must join a virtual session on Jan. 13, 14, or 15 and apply by 8 p.m. Jan. 30.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Education
At Tuesday morning's special meeting, Lewis-Palmer D-38 board approved a new capital lease financing agreement to support projects such as demolishing the aging Grace Best building and constructing a new Homeschool Enrichment Academy + ensuring cash flow until property tax revenue arrives; the projects are expected to finish by June 2027.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Environment
City officials unveiled an action plan to reduce waste and boost recycling, aiming for a 37% diversion rate by 2045 (expanding efforts in recycling, composting, education, and tracking), as Deputy Chief Ryan Trujillo explained the plan was developed with community feedback for long-term sustainability.
KOAA News5Read more
Government
A federal funding freeze threatens local childcare as many low-income families rely on tuition subsidies.
The freeze, affecting about $19 million in aid for El Paso County’s program, puts providers like Pikes Peak Preschool (130 children enrolled) in a tight spot that may delay payments to 28 employees.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Health
Data shows Colorado’s MMR vaccination rates stand at 88% — well below the 95% herd immunity target with only seven counties meeting the mark, and 36 measles cases were reported in 2025.
CDPHE says vaccines remain recommended in schools and child care settings.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Lifestyle
Local gym chains such as Planet Fitness, Crunch, and Vasa are offering affordable memberships since Jan. 6 in Colorado Springs, and experts advise newcomers to follow gym etiquette — wiping equipment before use helps ease the January crowd.
KOAA News5Read more
Sports
Pine Creek’s hockey team holds a 7-0-1 record and ranks third in weekly polls, while Cheyenne Mountain, at 6-4, will take on Standley Lake this Saturday at 5 p.m. The Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic featuring four teams is set for Jan. 17 at 6 p.m.—weather permitting.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
On Tuesday, Utah State beat Air Force 99-62 at Clune Arena — a 13-1 run helped the Aggies build a large lead.
Air Force will host New Mexico on Saturday at 1 p.m. as they look to bounce back.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Colorado Springs Events
Jazz Thursday with Susan Rissman
Thursday, January 8th, 2026 · 5-8 p.m. — The Mining Exchange — Free entry — Experience the smooth sounds of the Susan Rissman Trio performing jazz standards and contemporary covers.
Cybersecurity First Friday
Friday, January 9th, 2026 · 4-6 p.m. — University of Colorado Colorado Springs — Free entry — Connect with the Colorado Springs cybersecurity community for socializing and networking.
11+ Teens Dungeons and Dragons
Saturday, January 10th, 2026 · 11 AM – 1 PM — Peterson Library — Registration required — Adventurers of all experience levels welcome for a thrilling 5th Edition D&D campaign filled with homebrew magic.
Colorado Springs Pickers Bluegrass Jam
Sunday, January 11th, 2026 · 3-6 p.m. — Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort — Free entry — Share your love for Bluegrass and acoustic music in a friendly jam circle.
Mellow Mondays Coloring Night
Monday, January 12th, 2026 · 5-8 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free entry — Color your way into the week with fun pages and your favorite brews.
Twisted Tuesday Art Class
Tuesday, January 13th, 2026 · $4 Drinks — 6:30-8:30 PM — Painting with a Twist — $35 — Enjoy a fun painting session with guided instruction and $4 drinks!
Trivia Night at Goat Patch Brewing Company
Wednesday, January 14th, 2026 · 6:30-8:30 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free to play — Test your knowledge and win prizes at this lively trivia event.
Open Bar Comedy Live Recording
Thursday, January 15th, 2026 · 7:30-9 p.m. — Loonees Comedy Corner — General Admission and VIP options available — Experience a night of laughter as top comedians film their specials in Colorado Springs.
The Springs Home Show
Friday, January 16th, 2026 · 12-6 p.m. — Colorado Springs Event Center — Free admission — Explore home improvement options and exclusive vendor discounts at this inspiring event.
Christian Singles Gathering in Colorado Springs
Saturday, January 17th, 2026 · 1:30-3:30 p.m. — Third Space Coffee Roastery Cafe and Events — $20 for Non Hub Members — Enjoy a cozy afternoon with board games and fellowship among local Christian singles.