Good morning, Colorado Springs.

On April 25, The Exodus Road hosted its Together on Freedom’s Frontier fundraiser at Phil Long Music Hall to support victims of human trafficking and raise funds for rescue efforts.

Matt Parker, the nonprofit’s undercover investigator, explained they work with police to save children and give each victim a name—turning numbers into names.

Roth’s Seafood & Chop House will open at Ford Amphitheater in fall after its spring launch was pushed back— the restaurant will operate year-round with a rooftop bar and upscale dining featuring gourmet seafood and premium steaks.

VENU, the company behind the venue, said the new space will combine fine dining with live music on off-concert nights.

Staff Sergeant Juan Gabriel Orona-Rodriguez from Fort Carson was arrested on April 30 for allegedly selling cocaine to an undercover DEA agent—an arrest tied to an April 27 nightclub raid in Colorado Springs—and is accused of trafficking firearms and running a security company.

The 17th Annual Green Box Arts Festival will run from June 27 to July 12 in Green Mountain Falls — a 25-minute drive from downtown Colorado Springs — and will feature a world premiere ballet by Colorado Ballet and a 6,000-square-foot art installation by Patrick Shearn.

Tickets will be available — starting May 19 — for a wide range of art, dance, and family events.

Colorado Springs Utilities required outdoor watering only before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. starting May 1 to reduce water loss from evaporation during the hottest parts of the day.

The Metro Denver Homeless Initiative released Colorado’s first comprehensive State of Homelessness Report this week—showing that in 2024 over 52,800 people sought housing support statewide and 6,846 in the Pikes Peak region.

In Colorado Springs, local advocates like the Colorado Springs Homeless Union urged policymakers to boost permanent supportive housing and affordable housing programs to address the crisis.

Wynetta Massey, who has served as City Attorney for 35 years, announced her retirement today—her last day is June 30—and Marc Smith will serve as Acting City Attorney while the city begins a national search for a new chief legal officer.

The City is teaming with local nonprofits and residents for its Keep It Clean initiative—organizing major cleanup events today and tomorrow to remove trash from streets, parks, and trails while also helping those in need.

City departments and community partners work together to support a cleaner, safer environment.

Starting Thursday, CSU customers must follow new water rules that limit lawn watering to three days a week before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. until October 15th—violations will incur a $100 fine and require monthly adjustments to watering schedules.

Hiking Bob explained that two new guidebooks will help Colorado Springs hikers find unexplored trails, with Best Easy Day Hikes in Colorado Springs and a new edition of Hiking Colorado’s Western Slope set to release on May 6.

The column offers simple tips on using paper maps and cell phone apps to choose safe trails and check weather and equipment needs.

Sensory Friendly Spring Fling

10 a.m. — John Venezia Community Park — Free entry — Celebrate spring with inclusive activities for all sensory needs at this family-friendly gathering.

Monster Jam - Sunday

1-5 p.m. — The Broadmoor World Arena — Check website for pricing — Experience epic monster truck thrills with jaw-dropping stunts and family-friendly fun.

Bleating Heart Night: Riders 4 Children

5-9 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — $1 donation per pint — Enjoy craft beer while supporting Riders 4 Children.

All-Ages Story Time

1-2 p.m. — Peterson Library — Free entry — Enjoy fun stories, songs, and crafts in a welcoming atmosphere.

Star Wars: A New Hope

6 PM – 6 PM — Pikes Peak Center For The Performing Arts — Check for ticket prices — Experience the iconic film brought to life by a live orchestra.

Live Music with The Mitguards

6-9 p.m. — Rico's Cafe & Wine Bar — Free entry — Experience the distinct sound of The Mitguards blending folk, country, and swing music.

Giselle

4-6 p.m. — Ent Center for the Arts — Tickets required — Experience a beautiful ballet of love and forgiveness featuring over 60 young dancers.

Llamas Family Class: Mother's Day Celebration

10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $39-$47 per person — Enjoy painting with family while sipping on $2 coffees and $5 mimosas.

Team Trivia Night

5:45-8 p.m. — Rico's Cafe & Wine Bar — Free entry — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of trivia with food and drink specials and prizes for the winners.

Bleating Heart Night: Support NAMI Colorado Springs

5-9 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — $1 donation per pint — Enjoy good beer while supporting a great cause on Bleating Heart Night.