Good morning, Colorado Springs.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Jazz Thursday with Susan Rissman

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

4-6 p.m. — University of Colorado Colorado Springs — Free entry — Connect with the Colorado Springs cybersecurity community for socializing and networking.

Family Fun: Paint Your Favorite Squishy Friend

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — Pricing varies — Get ready to paint, sip, and unleash your creativity regardless of experience level.

Stranger Things Trivia and Blind Bag Prizes

2-4 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — Cost varies — Test your knowledge on Stranger Things and win fun blind bag prizes.

Game Days at Dave & Buster's

11:00 a.m. — Dave & Buster's Colorado Springs — Special deals on wings — Score big with game day deals at D&B including 10 wings for $10.

Twisted Tuesday Art Class

$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

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free to play — Test your knowledge and win prizes at this lively trivia event.

Fun Evening at Poor Richard's

6-8 p.m. — Poor Richard's Restaurant — Free entry — Enjoy good food, drinks, and the Wheel O' Crazy game with fellow locals.

Fix & Feast: In The Weeds

5:30 – 8:30 PM — The French Kitchen — $129.00 — Experience an evening of cooking decadent courses paired with refreshing mocktails.

Christian Singles Gathering in Colorado Springs

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.