Good morning, Colorado Springs.

Queen Palmer Elementary in southeast Colorado Springs received free books as part of the twice-yearly If You Give a Child a Book campaign after a $6000 donation from the Rotary Club of North Colorado Springs allowed each student to choose five books to build a personal library.

Thorn, a one-year-old male giraffe born at the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, joined Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s herd Sunday via the Species Survival Plan & is already taking lettuce from guests, continuing a family line as the son of BB and grandson of the late Khalid.

Today, National Day of Prayer events occur at Gateway Prayer Garden (10 a.m.), Ute Pass Cultural Center (6 p.m.), and Radiant Church (6:30 p.m.) to unite community prayer.

At the Ent Center for the Arts, Matthew D. Taylor discusses Christian nationalism at 6 p.m. with a 5 p.m. book signing.

Voters in Colorado Springs have named Dozo Sushi and Bar the top sushi spot this week, with Sushi Row and Jun Japanese as the runner-ups - 6AM City also recommends Sushi Ato on the booming north side for its experienced chefs and fresh rolls.

Local historian Steve Plutt and the Ute Pass Historical Society share Julia Holmes’ story as the first-recorded white woman to climb Pikes Peak on July 13, 1858, who defied social norms with her bold bloomers while chronicling her adventure (she was later inducted into the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame in 2014).

The Totally Rad Vintage Fest takes place Saturday at the Colorado Springs Event Center, 3960 Palmer Park Blvd, with dozens of vendors and exhibits including a free-play arcade — a throwback to classic gaming — and the Rad Rewind Museum; admission is $8 in advance and $12 at the door.

A 250-pound bear fell asleep in a Falcon home’s window well Tuesday morning, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers safely relocated it three hours southwest.

The city granted Ford Amphitheater a noise hardship permit after completing upgrades like sound walls, system reconfiguration & enhanced monitoring, allowing the venue to exceed normal noise limits this summer in Polaris Pointe.

Marathon runner Baylee Seipel turned personal loss in Colorado Springs into a mission as she raises funds through Team Empower (a Smile Train charity) to help children with cleft syndrome receive life-changing surgeries.

Running races internationally, she and her mother plan more fundraisers to support kids in need.

City Life & Recreation staff share local outdoor picks (including Motorless Mornings at Garden of the Gods, scenic hikes in Palmer and Ute Valley parks, and free bird programs) and highlight NAMIWalks Mental Health & Wellness Fest at Panorama Park on May 9 with community walks and free bagels, coffee and music.

On Tuesday, senior Sara Christensen scored two goals to lead Thomas MacLaren to its first girls’ soccer playoff win with a 2-0 shutout over Banning Lewis on their home field amid rainy conditions.

The Highlanders will face Frontier Academy in the second round on Saturday in Greeley.

Retiree Lunch at IBEW 113

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — IBEW Local 113 — Free to attend — Enjoy a delightful lunch with apprentices and fellow retirees as IBEW Local 113 caters the meal.

Archaeological Stewardship in the Pikes Peak Region

2-3 p.m. — Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum — $5 suggested donation — Explore archaeological stewardship efforts and discoveries in the Pikes Peak region with local experts.

$4 House Wine | Hydrangea Hearts For Mom

1-3 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $39-$52 per person — Unleash your creativity while sipping wine and painting your own masterpiece for Mother's Day.

Be^U's Legacy Chapter Network Meeting

9:30-11:30 a.m. — The Best Coffee & Lounge — Free entry — Connect with fellow women entrepreneurs to reflect and set goals for the month.

Flight in the Vale: Painting Experience

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $39-$55 per person — Unleash your creativity in a fun and relaxed painting class guided by a local artist.

Trivia Night at Goat Patch Brewing Company

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free entry — Test your knowledge and enjoy craft beer with weekly prizes at trivia night.

Algorhythm Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — The Black Sheep — Ticket prices vary — Experience the dynamic sounds of Algorhythm, blending reggae, rock, and electronic influences.

LIVE at the Lodge - Lee & Estares Blues

6-8 p.m. — Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort — Free entry — Enjoy a free public concert with Colorado-crafted drinks in a vibrant outdoor setting.

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC vs. New Mexico United

7-10 p.m. — Weidner Field — Price includes estimated fees — Catch the excitement as the Switchbacks face off against United in a thrilling match.

Olive Vox and Raue Concert

10 AM – 10 PM — The Black Sheep — Tickets starting at $24.21 — Catch Olive Vox and Raue live for an electrifying music experience.