Good morning, Colorado Springs.

NORAD is recruiting Colorado volunteers for its Santa Tracker call center on Christmas Eve to answer children’s calls; registration opened Monday at 8 a.m. MST at Peterson Space Force Base for two hour shifts (volunteers must be 15 and show government approved ID).

A viral social video criticizing Chapel Hills Mall sparked a local debate as shoppers rallied to defend its value for community meetings, dining, and exercise.

Locals emphasized that the mall remains a versatile spot, countering claims of decline.

Tally Kerr’s Roadrunner Bookshop (a mobile trailer carrying about 1,200 used and new books and local honey) parked at Ascent Brewery in Peyton on Saturday, Nov.

15, where community members discovered a cozy literary stop.

Narrow Gauge Books owner Jean Alger has shared a holiday guide of books with Western themes (including a novel on wildfire recovery and a board book on local animals) to help Colorado readers explore regional stories in various genres.

The recommendations cover memoir, young adult, poetry, and fiction.

At a Dec. 4 ribbon-cutting ceremony, Fountain-Fort Carson D-8 completed the rebuild and relocation of Abrams Elementary, an 80,000 sqft, two-story facility for up to 650 students.

The new building has smart boards & enhanced security to better serve mostly military-connected families.

NORAD opened registration Monday, Dec.

8 for Colorado volunteers 15 years and older to work shifts lasting two hours at Peterson Space Force Base for its Santa Tracker call center on Christmas Eve. Volunteers must have a DHS-approved ID to sign up.

A county housing assessment shows a shortage of 27,000 homes, putting families, seniors and low income workers at risk as more than half of renters spend over 30% of their income on housing.

The City will develop a Housing Action Plan as part of a strategy to add 60,000 homes by 2035.

The Colorado Springs Police Department warns of the growing presence of carfentanil, a synthetic opioid 100 times stronger than fentanyl, noting nearly half of the 61 recent fatal overdoses involved this drug and urging residents to report any suspicious pills to 719-444-7000.

Colorado Springs local Vince Provencio completed his 4000th F45 class at University Village on Oct.

18, a milestone reached after seven years of intense workouts + inspiring transformation from personal hardship.

Paul DePodesta, the Rockies' new baseball operations president, said the team is exploring offseason moves during MLB winter meetings in Orlando to bolster starting pitching and first base options.

The club plans to pursue trades and free agent signings as it prepares for future game challenges.

Wednesday Night Comedy Open Mic

7-10 p.m. — Lulu's Downtown — Free — A stage for novices and veterans alike, hosted by a comedian with impressive credentials.

OCC Christkindlmarket

12-8 p.m. — Bancroft Park — Free entry — Experience an authentic German holiday market with handcrafted goods and cultural entertainment.

Happy Hour: Creative Painting and Candle Making

5:00-6:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $25-$37 — Unleash your creativity while sipping drinks and making your own masterpiece.

Christian Singles Winter Gathering

5-8 p.m. — Colorado Mountain Brewery — $20 for Non Hub Members — Celebrate the season with fellowship, food, and a visit to a festive Christkindlmarket.

Santa Paws Winter Market

4-7 p.m. — Pub Dog Colorado — Free entry — Festive market featuring local vendors and delightful treats for both pups and their humans.

Bleating Heart Night: Sleep in Heavenly Peace

5-9 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — $1 donation per pint — Enjoy good beer while supporting a wonderful local charity focused on helping children in need.

Wednesday Night Comedy Open Mic

7-10 p.m. — Lulu's Downtown — Free entry — A platform for seasoned and new comedians to showcase their talent in a fun setting.

South Section Holiday Happy Hour

5:30-7 p.m. — COATI — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with a festive happy hour in Colorado Springs.

A Ronins Test Concert

6-8:30 p.m. — The Black Sheep — Tickets available — Experience a top concert pick in Colorado Springs this December.

Kris Shaw Live Comedy Show

7 p.m. — Loonees Comedy Corner — General Admission with a two-item minimum — Experience the unique storytelling and humor of Kris Shaw alongside special guests.