Good morning, Colorado Springs.

A statewide report shows that homelessness in El Paso County rose 4.3% from 2024 to 2025, with 7,078 people counted last year.

The growth contrasts with slight declines in metro Denver and rural areas, prompting calls from local agencies for more housing support.

A Colorado Springs boy is featured in a live interview today as he shares his plan to become the youngest to climb El Capitan.

He explained his ambitious goal and how the challenge could set a new record in the local adventure community.

Springs Scene offers many local ticketed events this week, starting with a conversation with Alexander Hamilton today at the Ent Center for the Arts + comedy, improv, and performance shows scheduled at venues like Pikes Peak Center and Peak Improv Theater through early summer.

Tony and Beth Feltman of RM Soap Market are building a local inclusive economy through the Story Impact Project (which offers real work for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities) that expands local retail and manufacturing roles.

The project now features an online store and a Colorado Springs location.

A team of UCCS and Pikes Peak State College students launched their fungi microgravity experiment aboard the ISS on May 15 via SpaceX CRS-34.

The experiment will test fungal metal recovery in low gravity to support sustainable space resource management + demonstrate Colorado students’ hands-on research.

Sophia Melpakam, the Doherty 2026 valedictorian + student body president, was recommended for the Best and the Brightest award after organizing The Harvest of Love campaign that raised nearly $26,000 for the local food bank.

She also received a Boettcher Scholarship and is being considered for West Point admission.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will hold practice flights at Falcon Stadium on Wednesday, May 27 from 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.—and they will perform during the Academy graduation on May 28 around 11 a.m., with local watch parties nearby.

Iron Wild Fitness has opened its doors at 324 E.

Pikes Peak Ave., Suite 100 in downtown Colorado Springs (a community-focused alternative to big-box gyms) and offers strength training, cardio, and mobility areas while planning to add on-site personal trainers and fitness classes soon.

Air Academy sophomore Landry Frost led the 4A girls state golf tournament on Monday at The Bridges under a frost warning (she shot 3-over-par 74 for a one-shot lead) and will compete in the final round today at 8 a.m. The Kadets remain in second place.

Black Stone Cherry Live Concert

7-10 p.m. — Sunshine Studios Live — All tickets valid — Experience a high-energy rock night with Black Stone Cherry, Deathride, and Before Vegas.

Unplugged at the Lodge

6-8 p.m. — Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort — Happy Hour pricing available — Enjoy local musicians playing acoustic originals and covers every Thursday night.

Chuck Roy Live!

7:30-11:15 p.m. — Loonees Comedy Corner — General admission available — Experience a night of fresh comedy with Chuck Roy and special guests.

Turnpike Troubadours Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Ford Amphitheater — Ticketed entry — Catch the rising star Avery Anna along with the beloved Turnpike Troubadours in an evening of great music.

Summer Music Series at Goat Patch Brewing Co.

6-9 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy live local music and craft beer in a vibrant summer beer garden.

Baby & Toddler Story Time

10:30-11:30 a.m. — Peterson Library — Free entry — Enjoy stories, songs, and crafts for young children.

Unplugged at the Lodge

6-8 p.m. — Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort — Happy Hour pricing available — Enjoy local musicians playing acoustic originals and covers every Thursday night.

DJ's World Latin Rave Fest

8-11 PM — Diamante Live — Tickets available — Experience an electrifying night filled with rhythm and energy featuring top DJs.

Beers and Gear Outdoor Expo

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Bristol Brewing Company — Free entry — Connect with outdoor brands and gear up for adventure this season.

Lovely Sunflowers Painting Class

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $40-$49 per person — Enjoy a creative painting class with unlimited mimosas and step-by-step guidance from an artist.