Good morning, Colorado Springs.

Today, Colorado Springs hosts COS Ski Fest at Rocky Mountain Ski and Sport on Academy Boulevard—over 5,000 pieces of gear are available for sale and shoppers can also bring in used items that are no older than 10 years; the event runs today and again next weekend with doors opening at 10 a.m. each day.

Bob Robson, a longtime machinist and Utilities supervisor who also served as a wildland fire responder, died from cancer in mid-October at 64 as family and co-workers gathered to honor his skill and caring spirit—his work and kind heart left a strong mark in our community.

A final celebration is planned Nov 7 at Rocky Mountain Calvary, and colleagues will soon rename part of the machine shop in his memory.

A hotel in Manitou Springs is gearing up for the Emma Crawford Coffin Races this weekend—hosting both street races and indoor activities that promise a busy time.

Colorado companies are testing Learning and Employment Records—digital records of training and job experience that can help match workers with needed skills.

The Colorado Workforce Development Council said businesses plan small trials to verify training and support cross-training in the future.

The City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department announced today the release of the 13th edition of the DiscoverCOS Calendar featuring over 300 photos from more than 100 local photographers showing our parks, trails, and open spaces.

Proceeds from the $15 suggested donation will support tree planting at Snyder Quarry in Black Canyon Open Space—boosting local reforestation efforts.

Officials announced that the South Suburban Reservoir is permanently closed to recreation—both for people and pets—after dog pollutants and the removal of 1,000 lost dog toys raised water safety concerns.

The reservoir closed in 2024 for repairs and will refill in 2026 while other trails in Stratton Open Space remain open.

The Colorado Springs Fire Department graduated its latest class of trainees today — new firefighters will soon join the team after completing rigorous training.

Colorado Springs Airport had 217,349 passengers in September, an 8.7% rise from last year, and enplanements increased 8.9% with airlines including Delta, United and Southwest announcing new service plans—such as year-round San Diego flights from Oct 2 and daily Houston service beginning March 5—while terminal renovations continue.

DEA Drug Takeback Day will soon take place in Colorado Springs, letting residents safely dispose of unused medications (officials say the event helps reduce drug misuse).

Veteran suicide rates in El Paso County have dropped after the NextChapter program helped veterans overcome opioid addiction, with deaths falling from 63 in 2023 to 36 in 2024.

Former Marine Sgt. Heath Miller, who faced prison for theft before getting clean, now leads recovery housing at Purple Mountain Recovery as the program works to secure new funding.

Step Springs, a new addiction recovery center for homeless men, will open on November 3 on Northpark Drive near Mark Dabling Boulevard and Garden of the Gods Road in Colorado Springs—offering 50 beds and same-day admission free of charge.

The center will provide job training and life skills that aim to help residents secure full-time jobs within 30 days.

Deion Sanders said he will lead the Buffs to build on last year's dominating win over Utah—facing the Utes today at 8:15 p.m. on ESPN in Salt Lake City while the team bounces back after a bye week.

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.

Real Estate Investor & House Hacker Meetup

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free entry — Network with local investors and learn about ADUs in a friendly environment.

Comedy Night at Goat Patch Brewing Co.

8-9:30 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of laughs with national touring comedian Brad Sativa.