Good morning, Colorado Springs.

Local Persian community members in Colorado remain caught between hope and worry after news of Iran’s regime change emerged Monday, March 2 (as many exchanged calls with relatives abroad) and celebrated potential change amid lingering uncertainty.

Arc Thrift Stores will expand its Feed America program to increase food donations + bolster support for local food banks, with more details expected soon.

Homeward Pikes Peak has launched an online QR code tool for downtown shoppers and workers to report non-emergency homelessness concerns and direct individuals to help.

The system is part of the Clean — Safe program and will send outreach teams for food, shelter and aid, with plans to expand citywide.

The El Paso County Parks Department replaced a broken fence at the historic cemetery at Bear Creek Dog Park during the past month — the update uses decorative gravel mulch to help preserve seven grave markers from the former Poor Farm.

Chapel Hills Mall’s general manager shared his plans for the mall as new businesses plan to move in.

He has reexamined the mall’s role with input from security (reflecting several years of review) to outline a future strategy.

Chapel Hills Mall will transform this spring as management plans to add Jungle Reef aquarium, an adventure park, and a sit-down Korean restaurant while Cronk Art moves in to attract local shoppers.

The mall aims for full occupancy by August + will update its parking lot to enhance safety.

The Colorado Springs Philharmonic announced Monday it received a $20,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to support the American Soundtrack festival, which will feature an Independence Day concert at Ford Amphitheatre and performances of works by American composers.

Local venues in Colorado Springs host many events from today to next month.

A cocktail class and live music at Icons set the stage, and tribute bands, recitals, and festivals take place at spots like Lulu’s Downtown and Phil Long Music Hall — offering something for every taste.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is nominated for Best Zoo in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards and residents can vote online once per day until 10 a.m. on March 9 while winners will be announced on March 18.

City data shows Colorado Springs recycles only 17% of its waste because high costs and limited options hinder participation.

Starting this year, House Bill 22-135 will require packaging companies to fund a statewide recycling program aimed at removing these barriers.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife announced Monday that fishing licenses for the 2026-2027 season are now available online.

Licenses, valid from March 1, 2026 — March 31, 2027, include a $1.25 fee to support local search-and-rescue teams.

Pine Creek clinched the 4A state hockey title with a score of 6 to 3 over Steamboat Springs on Monday, Mar.

2 at Magness Arena. The Eagles scored three third-period goals+ completing a five-game playoff run.

Trivia Night at Goat Patch Brewing Company

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free to play — Test your knowledge with trivia and enjoy craft beers at one of Colorado Springs' favorite breweries.

John Wise/Tribe Performance

5-8 p.m. — Rico's Café and Wine Bar — No cover — Enjoy an evening of live music with John Wise and his band at a cozy venue.

Mike Stanley Stand-Up Comedy Show

9:45-11:15 p.m. — Loonees Comedy Corner — General admission available — Experience the hilarious wit and heart of Mike Stanley, a comedian known for his engaging stand-up performances.

Lunar New Year Celebration: The Year of the Horse

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum — Free entry — Celebrate the Year of the Horse with family-friendly activities, performances, and cultural displays from local organizations.

Pikes Peak Morning

$12 Bottomless Mimosas All Weekend — 11 AM – 1 PM — Painting with a Twist — $40-$48 per person — Enjoy a guided painting session with unlimited mimosas and coffee refills.

Pasta Making Class with Chef Juwanza

5-7 p.m. — Blackhat Distillery — Includes all materials — Learn to craft delicious pasta while enjoying a fun and casual atmosphere.

Bleating Heart Night: The Lockwood Foundation

5-9 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — $1 donation per pint — Enjoy great beer while supporting local non-profits at Goat Patch's Bleating Heart Night.

Tino Cochino Live Comedy Show

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Loonees Comedy Corner — Two item minimum — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Tino Cochino, known for his relatable humor and viral online presence.

SoCo REIA Colorado Springs Chapter Meeting

6-8 p.m. — 1175 Kelly Johnson Blvd — Free entry — Explore renovation financing options for uninhabitable properties and connect with local investors and professionals.

$4 Happy Hour Drinks and Painting Party

$4 Happy Hour Drinks — 5-7 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $40-$48 per person — Enjoy a guided painting session with affordable drinks and all supplies included.