Good morning, Colorado Springs.

Retired Army colonel Nate Springer now leads Care and Share Food Bank in Colorado Springs and works to ease hunger as rising costs and federal cuts have left the food bank short of food—he has expanded mobile markets to serve rural areas and relies on strong state and private support. The food bank, which feeds about 284,562 people each month, has seen a surge in donations and volunteer help during the government shutdown and recent program cuts.

Little Heartshake at (2423 Colorado Ave.) in Old Colorado City saw a busy Wednesday and is now among local shops gearing up for Small Business Saturday today with sales on cozy items like blankets and mugs.

Festive events include photos with Santa (noon–8 p.m.) and live music to attract shoppers in Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs.

Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold certified the election results on Wednesday and determined that the Colorado Springs District 11 open school board seat must be recounted because the vote margin is within the 0.05% threshold—candidates for the seat received very close vote totals. County officials will complete an audit and certify the recount results as required by state law.

Marissa Prince—the executive director of Educating Children of Colorado—spoke with 11 News about the nonprofit’s work to educate children of color in Colorado Springs—she discussed its mission to support community learning.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife waived admission fees on Black Friday—yesterday—for all 43 state parks to encourage locals to enjoy nature instead of waiting in line at crowded stores.

This move aimed to help families create outdoor memories during the Thanksgiving weekend.

An outbreak of horse herpes was reported on November 21 after rodeo events in Texas and Oklahoma, and it may affect the National Western Stock Show set for Jan 10–25.

Officials say they are watching the situation closely and will add extra security measures if needed—no cases have been linked to the show so far.

72-year-old Guy Theriot was injured in a near-fatal motorcycle accident on CO 67 N in August and credited a whole blood transfusion—introduced by UCHealth—to quickly stabilize him before surgery at Memorial Hospital Central.

Rising housing costs and a growing senior population are pressuring local groups to boost affordable housing in El Paso County.

Silver Key Senior Services is moving forward with financing for a new senior living facility in the Old North End — a measure aimed at easing fixed incomes for local seniors.

Air Force beat Colorado State 42—21 at Canvas Stadium and finished their series at 40—22—1 with five wins in a row at the venue.

Jackson Adams set the tone early with key stops and helped the Falcons gain 316 yards on the ground.

The Avalanche won the trade for Mikko Rantanen when they sent him to Dallas in January, even though fans and media were upset at the time.

Columnist Mark Kiszla argued that receiving young Martin Necas—who scores more goals and costs less—gave Colorado the roster flexibility it needs as it prepares for the playoffs.

Air Force beat Colorado State 42-21 on Friday using a strong running and passing game to secure the rivalry win at CSU’s stadium—seniors then took the trophy to the academy as the series goes dormant.

Holiday Market & Photos with Santa

11 AM – 3 PM — Red Leg Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy holiday shopping, local crafts, and festive photos with Santa.

Mellow Mondays Coloring Night

4-9 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free entry — Unwind with coloring pages while sipping a pint at a local brewery.

Bleating Heart Night: Citizens Project

5-9 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — $1 donation per pint — Enjoy good beer while supporting a local non-profit cause.

Weekly Trivia Night at Pub Dog Colorado

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Pub Dog Colorado — Free entry — Test your knowledge in a fun and casual trivia competition with your furry friends.

Music Bingo at Pub Dog Colorado

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Pub Dog Colorado — All ages welcome — Bring your family and pups for an evening of fun music bingo with Olson Entertainment.

Merry & Bright Brunch

10 AM – 12 PM — The Catalyst Campus For Technology & Innovation — Ticketed event — Celebrate with good food and warm drinks as you connect with the community looking ahead to 2026.

Festival of Lights Parade

5:50-8:00 p.m. — Downtown Partnership of Colorado Springs — Free entry — Marvel at nearly 100 enchanting entries dazzling with lights and decorations.

27th Annual Colorado Springs Holiday Food & Gift Festival

10 AM – 4 PM — Norris Penrose Event Center — $8.00 adults, free for children 15 and younger — Celebrate the season with unique gifts, gourmet foods, and festive activities.

Mellow Mondays Coloring Night

4-9 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free — Unwind with a relaxing night of coloring at the brewery with both family and holiday-themed pages.

Twisted Tuesday Art Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $35 for $4 drinks — Enjoy an artistic evening with guided painting and discounted drinks.