Good morning, Colorado Springs.

Local gardeners in Colorado Springs now use Facebook Marketplace to sell homegrown vegetables and flowers at lower prices with some offering four starter plants for ten dollars compared to big box stores — a digital trend that began two years ago.

Colorado Springs faces a housing shortage of over 27,000 homes today, with projections of needing 60,000 more by 2035, prompting one letter to call for fair housing justice.

Another local letter recounted how a 4-year-old Nigerian dwarf goat approached firefighters during a recent brush fire, lifting their spirits.

Vince Bzdek, executive editor for the Gazette, announced his retirement effective Dec.

31 (after a 45-year career) and will be named editor emeritus; he led the paper’s growth and played a key role in shaping local journalism in Colorado Springs.

A recent Microsoft report found that about one-third of Colorado residents used AI tools in the first quarter, slightly above the national average—urban areas boasted higher usage with Boulder at 43.7% while rural counties like Custer lagged at 9.3%.

City officials warned that illegal minibike riding has surged in neighborhoods such as Palmer Park and Banning Lewis Ranch after several accidents - including a fatal collision on Union Boulevard - raised safety concerns, and additional signage will be installed soon to guide riders.

Today, the Colorado 150 series profiles cultural pathmakers including Kelly Bishop, known for inspiring her iconic role in 'A Chorus Line' through her Colorado roots (her journey mirrors local resilience).

The series honors local artistry and celebrates our rich cultural heritage.

Nearly three weeks after the Aspen Acres fire forced a quick evacuation on June 29 in Rye, Vicki Rose has yet to return home and now stays with her son in Colorado Springs as firefighters work to secure fire lines near dangerous spot fires (chicken foot).

Colorado Springs resident Mike Teger (57) finished the 25th Barr Trail Mountain Race on Sunday after overcoming brain surgery, keeping his streak alive as one of four runners who have completed every race since 2000.

About 400 runners tackled the 12.6-mile challenge in Manitou Springs with strong community support.

After a high-scoring Sunday game where the Rockies lost 9-6 to the Reds with eight total home runs, manager Warren Schaeffer said the team will reset and compete in today's three-game series opener against the Nationals at Coors Field.

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.

Cos Racing Group Bike Ride

5:30–6:00 p.m. — Fossil Craft Beer Company — Free entry — Enjoy a weekly trail cycling ride followed by a refreshing beer with the community.