Good morning, Colorado Springs.

Local firefighter Alan Kent (now retired) delivered baby Chloe Huddle in 2004 and built a lifelong bond with the Huddle family, attending her graduation, birthday parties, and her wedding on July 15 in Arizona.

Urban Grocer has opened downtown from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. as part of the Elevate Downtown plan to add grocery options for the growing neighborhood, with owner James Africano choosing a space across from Weidner Field and the Downtown Partnership expecting more local amenities soon.

Victor Gold Rush Days was held from July 17 to 19 in the historic mining town, featuring blacksmith demonstrations, mining contests and a pancake breakfast at Victor’s Gold Camp AG & Mining Museum — drawing visitors to experience local heritage.

A local traveler returned to the Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Railway last week after 50 years away, experiencing modern comforts and a revamped summit house (including plentiful restrooms and efficient service) while still enjoying the famous high-altitude doughnuts and humorous conductor commentary.

Betina Tacoronte of Amazing Grace Ranch shared her love for farm life at the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo on Saturday, July 18 at Norris Penrose Event Center, where she ran a petting zoo featuring horses, goats, and a calf (and more) to teach kids about farm history.

A coalition including the state teachers’ union launched a campaign for Proposition NN that will appear on the November ballot to redirect over $1 billion in TABOR refunds to K-12 education (funding teacher pay, smaller classes, and disability services) in Colorado.

Pat Shepperdson explains that native clematis vines add height and color to fences and trellises while drawing bees and butterflies.

Local experts say species like Rock Clematis and Western White Virgin's-Bower offer a low-maintenance garden boost (help is available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Air Force linebacker Blake Fletcher, who almost chose Wisconsin with a last-minute call, was named to the Preseason All-Mountain West team.

The academy in Colorado Springs lauds him as a leader after he overcame injuries (a broken leg and an ACL tear).

Switchbacks are hosting a free World Cup final watch party today at 12:30 p.m. on Weidner Field with concessions available for purchase and lawn games planned for a lively community gathering.

Air Force baseball coach Mike Kazlausky leaves his coaching role to serve as director of leadership and institutional strategy.

He spent 16 years building a winning program (including two conference championships) that helped the academy attract top athletes.

Real Madrid Foundation Soccer Camp

8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. — El Pomar Youth Sports Park — Registration required — Develop soccer skills with expert coaching from Real Madrid methodologies.

Mash Mechanix Pickleball Club

5:30-6 p.m. — Mash Mechanix Brewing Co — Free entry — Enjoy friendly and competitive pickleball while sipping on discounted pints.

Trivia Night at Goat Patch Brewing Company

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free to play — Test your knowledge while enjoying craft beer and prizes every Wednesday night.

Cos Racing Group Bike Ride

5:30-6:00 p.m. — Fossil Craft Beer Company — Free entry — Enjoy a weekly cycling adventure followed by community vibes and craft beer.

Food Distribution Event

10-11 a.m. — Norris Penrose Event Center — Open to all — Helping the community by providing food supplies for those in need.

Highland Happy Hour

6-10 p.m. — Jack Quinn's Irish Pub and Restaurant — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of drinks and camaraderie at a beloved local pub.

Sunday Market in Acacia Park

9 AM – 2 PM — Acacia Park — Free entry — Browse fresh food and local goods at this vibrant weekly community market.

Aqua Zumba with Natilia

9:30-10:15 a.m. — Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort — $15 per class for locals, free for overnight guests — Enjoy a fun, water-resistant dance party that's easy on the joints.

Tuesday Trivia Night

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Red Leg Brewing Company — Free entry — Test your knowledge and enjoy great beer while competing for fun prizes.

Trivia Night at Goat Patch Brewing

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free to play — Test your knowledge at a fun trivia night with beer and prizes.