Daily editionWednesday, February 11th, 2026
Good morning, Colorado Springs.
The Daily Colorado Springs Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 11th of February.
Community
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo has named Dave Ruhl new CEO and president starting June 12.
Ruhl, who joined in 2020, led projects including the giraffe habitat (opening this summer) as he prepares to succeed longtime leader Bob Chastain.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Local venues offer unique mid-February meals and events for Valentine's, Galentine's, and Palentine's.
Options include a $199 dinner at Mining Exchange Hotel, shared plates at Stellina and Jax Fish House, a brunch at ViewHouse, and a girls dinner at Golden Hour, with events from Feb. 8 – 22.
SpringsRead more
Culture
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (celebrating its 100th anniversary) has been nominated for USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Zoo and Best Zoo Membership; readers may vote daily until Monday, Mar. 9.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Ford Amphitheater was named a top concert venue on Billboard's 2026 Top Music Venues list; the venue opened in August 2024 and already hosted acts like Cage the Elephant and OneRepublic.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Environment
Scientists report a record snow drought is threatening water supply and winter recreation in Colorado as low snowpack persists, reducing water stored for summer use & increasing wildfire risks.
Meteorologists expect wetter, cooler weather later this week though it may not fully reverse the deficit.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Government
K9 Kai retired Tuesday after more than six years with the police department, responding to over 469 calls and aiding 115 suspect surrenders while also participating in 74 school demonstrations (2024 CSPD K9 March Madness Champion) before enjoying his retirement.
11 NewsRead more
Health
Porch Light Health's Steve Carleton shared mental health tips for managing stress during tough times, as featured by 11 News on Feb. 10 — advice that helps Colorado Springs residents care for their well-being in everyday life.
11 NewsRead more
Firefighters now have access to free lung cancer screening at Penrose and St. Francis Hospitals in El Paso County.
The program offers low-dose CT scans for those with 10+ years of service to catch cancer early given their 60% higher risk from smoke and chemical exposure.
KOAA News5Read more
Lifestyle
The Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region is seeking a forever home for Thunder, a 4-year-old Labrador mix (75 lbs) who has shown gentle, well-behaved traits for three months; his $200 adoption fee covers a vet exam, vaccinations, and a microchip.
11 NewsRead more
The Melting Pot offers a special Valentine’s Day four-course lunch with a Champagne toast on Friday and Sunday from noon to 2:30 p.m. at 30 E. Pikes Peak Ave.—dinner options begin at 2:30 p.m. with additional courses and gift cards while kids dine for $50.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Downtown restaurant Dos Santos offers its chicken tinga chips—piled with shredded chicken, onion, cotija and cilantro—for $7 during happy hour, down from $11.
The dish is available all day Monday and from 3 to 6 p.m. every other day at 70 E. Moreno Ave.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Sports
Natalie Genz, a senior swimmer for Liberty, was thrilled to be named Colorado Springs Metro League Swimmer of the Year after setting a personal best of 2:05.61 in the 200-yard freestyle + she will compete at state in Thornton later this week.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Colorado Springs Events
Unplugged at the Lodge
Thursday, February 12th, 2026 · 6-8 p.m. — Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort — Happy Hour pricing available — Experience local musicians performing acoustic originals and covers in a cozy setting.
Friday the 13th Storytelling Show
Friday, February 13th, 2026 · 7:30 p.m. — Storybook Brewing — Ages 18+ — Enjoy an evening of heartfelt stories and laughter on a spooky night.
Valentine's Day Fun for Christian Singles
Saturday, February 14th, 2026 · 12-3 p.m. — Paravicini's Italian Bistro — $20 for Non Hub Members plus cost of lunch and games — Enjoy a cozy Italian lunch followed by games at the Penny Arcade with fellow Christian singles.
The 13th Annual Black History Program
Sunday, February 15th, 2026 · 3-7 p.m. — Ent Center for Performing Arts — Donation Only — Celebrate Black History with live music and a tribute to Motown Records featuring The Four Tops.
MeadowGrass Music Festival 2026 Lineup Release Party
Monday, February 16th, 2026 · 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.
Sweet T’s Rude Blues Jam
Tuesday, February 17th, 2026 · 6-9 p.m. — PEAK 31 @ Union Station — Free entry — Experience a lively atmosphere with local blues musicians performing weekly jams.
ROAR Connections at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 · 4:00 – 6:30 PM — Cheyenne Mountain Zoo — Check website for pricing — A unique program for children with differing needs to connect with animals and nature.
Rodger Lizaola's Comedy Special Filming
Thursday, February 19th, 2026 · 7:30-11:30 p.m. — Loonees Comedy Corner — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter as Rodger Lizaola films his 30-minute special for Open Bar Comedy.
Steven Briggs Live!
Friday, February 20th, 2026 · 9:45-11:15 PM — Loonees Comedy Corner — General Admission and VIP Options Available — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Steven Briggs, fresh from his tour performing for US troops.
Xtreme International Ice Racing
Saturday, February 21st, 2026 · 2:30-5 p.m. — The Broadmoor World Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrill of high-speed ice racing with fearless riders on studded bikes and quads.