Good morning, Colorado Springs.

Local child care advocates launched the 10-week Kids Strong Start campaign Thursday morning at Early Connections Learning Centers to share data and personal stories about the lack of affordable care in Colorado Springs — demand far exceeds available spots.

Big 5 Sporting Goods is closing several stores in northern Colorado from Jan.

17 to mid-March, but both Colorado Springs locations at 1810 W. Uintah St. and 5075 N. Academy Blvd. will remain open as they receive closeout stock from other outlets.

Colorado Companies to Watch has opened applications for its 2026 awards and launched Colorado Nonprofits to Know to recognize high-performing nonprofits.

The program also partnered with TrueSpace + offers free first-month access to scale-readiness tools for second-stage companies.

The Human Equation concert by the Chamber Orchestra of the Springs will feature a premiere from flutist Erin Spencer and composer Dylan Fixmer Saturday and Sunday at Ent Center for the Arts (7 p.m. Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday) to spotlight music’s role in healing and mental health.

On Thursday, Mountain Vista Community School sixth-grade math teacher Shana Engel received the Milken Educator Award and a $25,000 cash prize during an assembly attended by students, colleagues, and the media — the honor making her Colorado’s sole award recipient recognized for innovative teaching methods and commitment to student success.

City crews are preparing roads across Colorado Springs ahead of overnight snow, and officials warn drivers to expect slick conditions during today's morning commute.

Residents should plan extra travel time to handle the conditions.

Air Force hockey begins the rest of its season this weekend by hosting defending champion Bentley at Cadet Ice Arena, with puck drop at 7:05 p.m. today and 5:05 p.m. Saturday (coach Serratore says the team will focus on strong starts and faceoff possession) after recent wins built momentum.

Colorado College freshman left wing Wilson Björck helped Sweden win gold at the World Junior Ice Hockey Championship on Monday night in St. Paul, before flying back Tuesday + he will rejoin his team this weekend as they host No. 4 North Dakota.

After a weekend sweep by Augustana, Colorado College hockey aims to rebound with games against fourth-ranked North Dakota; the Tigers face the Fighting Hawks today at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 6 p.m. at Ed Robson Arena (coach Kris Mayotte emphasized urgency for playoff points).

Pine Creek girls basketball beat Air Academy 60-41 on the road, handing the Kadets their first home loss since last season.

The Eagles played aggressive defense + senior Alli Dreessen scored 21 points, and coach Jade McIntosh said the win boosts their confidence for future games.

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.

Sunday Family FUNday | Elephant in Color

2-4 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — Costs may vary — Get ready to unleash your creativity with a fun and colorful painting experience for the whole family.

Mellow Mondays Coloring Night

5-8 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free entry — Start the week with colors and brews at this relaxing coloring night for all ages.