Good morning, Colorado Springs.

Colorado Safe Futures Fund announced Wednesday that it awarded 18 local organizations $770,000 in inaugural grants to help reduce firearm injuries and support youth safety.

The funds will back initiatives in southern Colorado and Pueblo, including suicide risk identification + firearm safety education.

Colorado Springs art venues host free Friday receptions featuring new exhibits by local artists.

At Auric Gallery (125 E. Boulder St.) and Cottonwood Center for the Arts (427 E. Colorado Ave.), shows run through Feb. 27 and Feb. 28 while additional displays debut at the airport gallery and Gallery 113.

Data shows the economy expanded at a revised 4.4% GDP growth — consumer sentiment was low and local job openings fell in Colorado Springs.

Analysts say housing permits and business confidence indicate growth now rests on past momentum, which could affect future fundamentals.

Local ski rental shops report lower sales due to Colorado's low snowpack this winter, prompting some to boost online sales to serve customers in snowier areas + business owners hope more snow will return during spring break.

Pikes Peak State College has expanded its ASPIRE Scholars program to offer concurrent enrollment for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), making it the only college in state to give access to college level courses.

The program is designed to open pathways to independence, employment and community engagement.

El Paso County will host the free Veterans Expo on Wednesday, June 10 at Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts.

Veterans & families will connect with over 60 service organizations, attend informational sessions, & receive guidance from accredited Veterans Service Officers with registration details to come.

Mayor Mobolade signed a $700K contract with the Downtown Partnership to boost the Clean & Safe program—expected to improve downtown safety, cleanliness and support services.

The measure builds on early results from 2025 and will benefit local residents and businesses.

A new guide lists 14 romantic restaurants in town for date nights, including spots for first dates, cozy dinners, and anniversary celebrations.

Some venues offer exclusive Valentine’s Day menus and bonus events (like brunches and prix fixe specials) to add extra flair.

Nakhon Luang Thai Kitchen has opened in the former NaRai Thai space at 805 Village Center Drive.

New owners & team serve traditional Thai and Laotian dishes daily, with lunch 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and dinner 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The US Olympic Paralympic Museum hosts Downtown Winter Fest on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering free admission, athlete meet-and-greets, live music, and more plus free carriage rides, a ninja obstacle course, and s'mores.

The museum remains open until 5 p.m. with final entry at 4 p.m.

Senior Emily Adams scored a career high 23 points (and grabbed 12 rebounds) to lead the Falcons to a 73-50 win over Utah State at Clune Arena on Wednesday, Feb.

4; her performance helped secure Air Force's first back-to-back conference win this season.

Mesa Ridge receiver Kobe Dooley signed with Air Force Wednesday after his final high school game, where eight catches and a touchdown caught the attention of recruiters due to his military background and teammate connection.

He opted for the academy after a Colorado State offer vanished with a coaching change.

Freshman defenseman Mats Lindgren of Colorado College was named conference defenseman of the month Wednesday after scoring eight points in January.

He earned the honor as his team managed injuries to key players (including junior captain Max Burkholder).

Revolution Jewelry Works in Colorado Springs teamed with U.S. Figure Skating to continue making Radix pins for elite medalists and redesigned the pins with colored plating for each placement—local pairs Ellie Kam and Danny O’Shea will receive a hometown—made pin if they medal at the upcoming Olympics.

Colorado Springs Home & Garden Show

12-6 p.m. — Norris Penrose Event Center — Free parking — Explore innovative home designs and expert landscaping at this comprehensive home show.

Saturday Morning Yoga with Vanessa

10:30-11:30 a.m. — Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort — Bring your own mat — Relax and unwind by the fireplace during this community yoga session.

Galentine's pARTy with Chocolates and BOGO Wines

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $40-$49 per person — Celebrate friendship with a painting session, free chocolates, and BOGO wines.

Tuesday Trivia Night at Cerberus Brewing

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Cerberus Brewing Company — Free entry — Test your knowledge with trivia and enjoy fresh beer at a local favorite brewery.

Trivia Night at Goat Patch Brewing

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free to play — Test your knowledge and enjoy great brews and pizza with friends.

Lovers of the Night

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $37-$49 per person — Unleash your creativity in a cozy atmosphere with painting and candle-making fun.

Band of Brothers — Springs of Living Water

2-3 a.m. — Pierce Home — Free entry — Connect with fellow men through faith-based activities and outdoor challenges.

Valentine's Day Crafting Session

1:30-5 p.m. — Pikes Peak Library District - Library 21c — $20 — Unleash creativity making handmade gifts for your loved ones this Valentine's Day.

All Ages! U Make My Heart Saur with Free Beverages

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Painting with a Twist — $30 per person — Enjoy a creative family-friendly event with hot beverages and guided painting fun.

MeadowGrass Music Festival 2026 Lineup Release Party

5-9 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — $1 from every pint supports local music — Celebrate the 2025 MeadowGrass lineup while enjoying great brews and supporting the community.