Good morning, Colorado Springs.

Four former Fort Carson soldiers are converting a 1904 Westside church into a modern childcare center with secure safety features & engaging curriculum.

Enrollment is underway with 40 slots filled, and the center is set to open by September.

Hunt & Homestead reopened April 1 at 1099 US 24 in Woodland Park, featuring products from 80 local makers; ahead, timed-entry permits and shuttle tickets for Pikes Peak and a workshop on wildfire-ready landscapes in Green Mountain Falls are on sale and scheduled for April 1 and April 11, respectively.

New owners Mike and Mary O’Neil have taken over Cogstone Brewing Co. in Village Seven following founding owner Robert Hemphill’s farewell tour in late March—Hemphill will work part time to train them as the brewpub keeps its menu, hours and award-winning beers.

Poor Richard’s, a local staple, now operates under new ownership following an announcement Wednesday night; the change is effective immediately and may signal fresh ideas plus renewed quality for patrons.

Local author Mary Ellen Johnson will showcase her latest book, The Golden Promise of Cripple Creek, at the April 19 Chautauqua at 2 p.m. at Lake George Charter School (hosted by the Pikes Peak Historical Society); copies will be available for $20 after the free event.

Pikes Peak State College’s theater program (in collaboration with Springs Ensemble Theatre) will present Eurydice; details on the performance time and location are forthcoming.

The Fine Arts Center announced its 2026-2027 season featuring three musicals, starting with 'Come From Away' on Sept.

10, and including revamped seating in both theaters. The museum will launch new exhibits, and a community kiln will open in fall — offering eco-friendly art sessions.

Rock Ledge Ranch is expanding its educational programs for children and families with events like Barnyard Buddies on the first Thursday (featuring local nature story times) to encourage active community engagement on the west side.

Visitors can check online for more details.

Due to an unusually warm and dry winter, pine beetle numbers rose along the Front Range, endangering trees and increasing wildfire risk; in December, Gov. Polis (the state leader) established a task force to help homeowners protect their property.

After removing over 130 traffic cameras last summer, CDOT has begun installing 66 new state-managed cameras at key intersections near Antero Junction, Manitou Springs and Cripple Creek + using public feedback to choose locations.

The cameras are expected to be live by fall.

Colorado Springs Fire Department discussed its new drone program in an interview on Friday, Apr.

3. Officials said the initiative will boost efficiency in emergency aerial support + increase safety for fire crews.

Today, the Switchbacks host Lexington SC at 3 p.m. at Weidner Field—coach Alan McCann said players with repeated errors will be benched and goalkeeper Christian Herrera may start after his strong penalty performance as the team enters a bye week.

Avalanche coach Jared Bednar faces steep pressure to win the Stanley Cup as his top-seeded team prepares for the playoffs — critics recall previous playoff losses.

Meanwhile, Colorado coach Deion Sanders contends with high expectations following his $54M contract extension as the Buffs look to prove their investment.

Kid’s Closet Clothing Swap

12-1 p.m. — Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience at UCCS — Free entry — Bring gently used kids' clothes to swap and support local families.

Big Band Jazz & Dance Night

6-8:30 p.m. — Louie Louie's Piano Bar — $10 cover — Experience an unforgettable big band jazz show with dance lessons during intermission.

Faculty Artists Concert at Packard Hall

3-4 p.m. — Sperry S. And Ella Graber Packard Hall of Music and Art — Free entry — Experience the diverse talents of CC Music Faculty featuring piano, strings, and gamelan.

Trivia Night at Goat Patch Brewing Company

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

Golden Brushes Art Class for Seniors

10 AM – 12 PM — Painting with a Twist — All supplies included — Unleash creativity in a relaxed setting while making new friends and learning from a guiding artist.

2026 Brew Fest

6-10 p.m. — Peterson SFB Hub Community Center — $25 per person — Enjoy craft brews and live music while sampling local flavors.

Dreamboat Annie Presents: Journey to the Heart of Zeppelin

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Phil Long Music Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Cost info not provided — Experience a night of rock classics as Dreamboat Annie pays tribute to Journey, Heart, and Led Zeppelin.

Yoga Nidra Guided Meditation

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Praxis Yoga — $20 drop-in or included in memberships — Experience deep relaxation and rejuvenation through guided meditation.

Just Between Friends Spring Sale

11 AM – 1 PM — Colorado Springs Event Center — Check event page for entry fee — Spring sale event showcasing a variety of items for families.

Pikes Peak at Dusk | Add Glitter!

5-7 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — Participation fee required — Unleash your creativity in a guided painting session while enjoying beverages and snacks.