Good morning, Colorado Springs.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sweet T’s Rude Blues Jam

6-9 p.m. — PEAK 31 @ Union Station — Free entry — Experience a lively atmosphere with local blues musicians performing weekly jams.

Ricky Sweum Sax Trio Live Performance

5:00 p.m. — The Mining Exchange — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of innovative jazz sounds from a talented local trio led by award-winning saxophonist Ricky Sweum.

Rodger Lizaola's Comedy Special Filming

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!

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.

Saturday Bike Ride

6-8 p.m. — Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort — Free entry — Enjoy an evening ride with the Colorado Springs Cycling Club to Glen Eyrie Castle.