Good morning, Colorado Springs.

The Venetian Village yard sale returns to Papeton after a six-year break, with 13 homes joining the event to help neighbors reconnect and plan future gatherings (the Papeton Neighborhood Organization is also setting up a neighborhood lunch in September).

Hapke’s Hortum relocated from Old Colorado City to 101 N.

Tejon St. downtown to offer a larger and brighter space for indoor plants, workshops, and planned bonsai classes. The shop opened at the end of June.

Bear Creek Nature Center will mark its 50th anniversary on Aug.

22 at Bear Creek Regional Park with a Living History Walk starting at 10:30 a.m. and a Bear-thday Party following, and pre-registration is required.

Tatiana Bailey reported that Q2 GDP grew at 1.5% and Colorado Springs job openings fell slightly from May to June while local unemployment increased, reflecting a tight labor market amid easing inflation.

The report also noted steady consumer spending and high mortgage rates that continue to affect housing affordability.

At the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, new deans were named Wednesday to lead four schools that will integrate cadets’ studies, with new courses introduced in spring and a revamped curriculum rolling out next fall (the restructuring replaces the previous 20-department model).

On August 7, the Department of War released documents detailing two UAP sightings above Colorado Springs.

One report from October 2023 described a triangular object with red lights that moved at high speed, while another featured a silent object seen from a couple’s porch (as low as 300 ft).

At UCHealth Park during the Tacos and Tequila Festival on Saturday, about 10 people were hospitalized and 20 treated for heat-related illnesses as temperatures hit 97+ during a heat advisory, prompting extra medical support.

Colorado Master Gardener Fredricka Bogardus recommends native milkweed for its bright blooms that attract monarchs and bees in the Pikes Peak region.

Gardeners can purchase plants or start seeds (cold stratification or winter sowing required) to enjoy these drought-tolerant additions.

Air Force’s defense is building a tough edge as it completes its fourth practice under returning coordinator Steve Russ + who brings NFL experience to lead a mix of veterans and emerging players as they gear up for a season opener next month.

Air Force grad Patrick Hoopes clinched the national pommel horse title on Saturday in Phoenix with a strong routine that outscored an Olympic veteran—Frederick Richard also won his first men’s all-around title after a comeback season, ensuring both athletes are set to represent the team internationally.

Air Force’s football practice in Colorado Springs featured an F-16 flyby by ex-Falcon Nate Walker as teams rotated, and Superintendent Lt. Gen. Paul D.

Moga presented Colorado coach Deion Sanders a flight helmet. Senior Kemper Hodges also played both quarterback and fullback in a dual role at practice.