Good morning, Colorado Springs.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo will host Boo at the Zoo from October 24-26 and October 31 from 4 to 8:30 p.m. where guests can visit select animal exhibits, trick-or-treat at over 20 stations, and enjoy rides and animal demonstrations (all while supporting zoo improvements and conservation efforts).

Food pantry managers warned that if SNAP benefits stop in November due to the government shutdown, many families will struggle as donations and funds become even more limited+ local pantries expect a surge in need.

Yevgeniya Tsyganok of Solid Rock Community Food Center urged community members to donate nonperishable food and toiletries+ her call comes as pantries gear up for rising demand.

Yesterday, Mt. Carmel and 63 other agencies hosted the 27th annual Colorado Springs Stand Down at Weidner Field to help up to 200 veterans experiencing homelessness receive winter supplies and support.

Veterans were assigned sponsors and guided to resource tables that provided sleeping bags, warm clothing, meals, haircuts, and housing and employment assistance—steps designed to help them move off the street.

The old St. Andrew’s church in Manitou Springs is being turned into a community center to add a food pantry open Wednesdays and spaces for events, with local listening sessions set for Nov.

11 to shape needed services — the project aims to fill gaps in local offerings. St. Michael’s donated $50,000 to help launch the hub and the center is due to open in January with an expected annual cost of about $150,000 — community leaders say it will address service shortages.

A small grass fire broke out on the Fort Carson training grounds Tuesday afternoon (officials confirmed the fire at 2:28 p.m. while crews monitored the area) while the cause remains unknown (officials have not determined it).

Palmer High School is receiving a $5 million award from the Colorado Energy Office to add a thermal energy network that upgrades its air conditioning systems as renovations continue at the school.

The project will use underground pipes to share heat & lower energy costs while cutting CO2 emissions through a state tax credit program.

An audit showed that 16 Colorado school districts, mostly in rural areas, are under financial stress while 18 improved in the 2023-24 fiscal year+ the report examined data from 2021-22 to 2023-24.

The Ellicott School District east of Colorado Springs missed five benchmarks because of extra construction costs for new classrooms and is hiring an accounting team to fix budget and staffing issues+ rising expenses in maintenance and insurance add to the challenge.

Canvas, the tool used by UCCS students to check grades and submit assignments, was down for 12 hours Monday due to an AWS outage that delayed exams and led to early class cancellations.

Colorado Springs residents have filed a petition to recall Councilman Tom Bailey — six months into his term.

El Paso County held a public work session on October 21 to present an independent Water Reliability Evaluation by Moore Engineering that found the Denver Basin Aquifer provides ample water and that the county's 300 year rule is effective—officials said the data will guide future land-use decisions.

Air Force’s defense improved in a 24-21 win over Wyoming as freshmen and sophomores made key plays that boosted team confidence—sparking a change in mindset.

The Falcons will build on this momentum for their game against Army on Nov. 1.

Ashlyn Delaney led The Classical Academy volleyball team to a 3-0 win over state champion Village with 14 kills and now ranks third in the state with a .438 hitting percentage, adding to a 15-2 record this season.

She has committed to play for Northern Colorado and is praised for her leadership that boosts team chemistry.

Thursday Lunch & Learn

12-1:30 p.m. — MacKenzie’s Chop House — All welcome — Network with inspiring individuals while enjoying a delicious meal and guest speakers.

Let's Get Spice-Y

1-4 p.m. — The French Kitchen — Free entry — A flavorful collaboration with Savory Spice shop featuring tasty bites at an open kitchen market.

Mischief District 2025 Convention

1-6 p.m. — Ivywild School — Free entry — Explore an All Hallows Eve themed outdoor art market while enjoying fire pits and local food options.

Twisted Tuesday Painting Party with $4 Drinks

$4 Drinks — 6:30-8:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $35 per person — Enjoy a guided painting session with affordable drinks and a fun atmosphere.

Wednesday Night Comedy Open Mic

6-10 p.m. — Lulu's Downtown — Free entry — A night of laughter where seasoned and newcomer comics share the stage in a fun atmosphere.

Halloween Boo-wling Spooktacular

5-8 p.m. — Main Event Colorado Springs — Various activities — Enjoy a night of bowling, crafts, and contests for all ages in a spooky Halloween atmosphere.

A Wicked Halloween Party with Cocktails and Karaoke

7-10 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $39-$47 per person — Revel in witchy cocktails, karaoke, and a festive painting experience at this all-ages Halloween extravaganza.

Sunset over Snowy Pines Painting Class

4:30-6:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $37-$55 per person — Unleash your creativity while sipping on drinks in a fun, social atmosphere.

Fusion Night

8 p.m. – 12 a.m. — 1106 N Circle Dr, Colorado Springs, CO — Free entry — Experience a vibrant fusion of music and entertainment every Saturday night.

Soulfly Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — The Black Sheep — Check venue for ticket prices — Experience the iconic sound of Soulfly as they celebrate over two decades of music and tours.