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Volunteers reporting on community issues in Monument, Palmer Lake, and the surrounding Tri-Lakes area

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John Heiser

High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG) – Garden—and lawn—success starts with dandelions!

By Janet Sellers

Before you grab anything that’s toxic, let’s take a look at some handy hints that are easy and don’t harm people or pets.

Chemicals to kill weeds and varmints go down into our groundwater and poison our water.

Every year I share the importance of the dandelions as the first food for both hummingbirds and pollinators. Root to flower, the dandelion supports our gardens in ways we may never have imagined. Dandelions send their roots down anywhere from 2-20 feet to bring up nutrients to the surface. The roots also loosen and aerate the soil and help control erosion. Dandelions enrich our soil and our gardens. Dandelions will not return when the soil is rich and balanced. They are edible roots to flowers. And they actually fertilize the grass. Dandelions are in the same family as lettuce, artichokes, chamomile, and daisies.

So how did dandelions get such a bad rap? Dandelions are indicators of poor soil. Contrary to popular belief, once the soil is restored dandelions stop growing in those areas. I have been able to find a plethora of information on the benefits of dandelions but curiously, the bulk of texts against growing them is from chemical companies that want to sell chemicals. Widespread movie and TV shows of “pretend perfect” but fake lawns added to the ideas of lawns and lawn care: perfect lawn, perfect family. But there’s no perfect family or lawn. That’s fake, too. Dandelions can be mowed after their blooming, which has helped our pollinators and hummingbirds as the first flower of food power in spring. Mowing them is an easy way to control spread if needed.

A kid and pet safe vermin deterrent

The fastest, safest, most effective pocket gopher and varmint deterrent (besides a house cat) I have found is castor oil. Add to a gallon (a 1-pound bag) of clean clay cat litter 6 ounces of Castor oil and shake in the bag thoroughly to coat all the clay particles. Then cast it over the lawn or garden and watch as the voles disappear over the next few days. They stay away. It gives the ground vegetation and odor and taste that disagree with the vermin. It goes safely into the soil and makes the plants taste bad to the varmints so they won’t eat them. Reapply after rain or snow.

Janet Sellers is an avid lazy gardener, letting Mother Nature lead the way in our mountain high desert climate. Contact her at JanetSellers@ocn.me.

Other gardening columns

Art Matters – Art multiples: slabs to electronic screens; Art Hop rides again

By Janet Sellers

News flash: Our local Art Hop season begins in May, now 5-8 p.m. on fourth Fridays. Wander around downtown Monument for an evening of fun, art, food, and meeting up with old—and new—friends.

Today’s creative artwork and hand-painted unique apparel are here as expensive yet greatly expressive, artist-designed clothing, shoes, handbags, luggage and more—even body ink. The novel ideas and values of scarcity are coming back from the mass-produced, highly available pieces that were in demand in yesteryear. And yet:

Mass-made art was an innovation

When they started, most printing process outcomes allowed for a cheaper alternative to hand work. All were available largely to the wealthy, as most new technologies are in any age.

The Museum of Modern Art in New York City explains on its website that lithography was invented around 1796 in Germany by an otherwise unknown Bavarian playwright, Alois Senefelder, who accidentally discovered that he could duplicate his scripts by writing them in greasy crayon on slabs of easily available local limestone and then printing them with rolled-on ink. This was an easier, cheaper method compared to the earlier pen works, engravings, or etchings. Multiples via printing processes only much later became of value as art but were first related to mass, mechanical reproduction and not valued as highly as the scarcity of original handmade works.

Replication and production throughout the centuries used various flat printing methods including silk-screening, a fabric stenciling process from the Song dynasty in China that emerged around 960 A.D., then used in 1600s Japan for textiles. Japanese stencils used human hairs, with stiff brushes to apply paint. Later, silk was chosen for the stencil fabric, thus the term “silkscreen.” The Western use, in England, of this process was first patented in 1907. These processes and their artifacts hold value now because of their age and the fact that they lasted this long. They are scarce and respected artifacts of our history and our human past.

Mass production of posters in the 1960s utilized screen printing to “get the word out” in posters, signs, political protest signs, and more. The U.S. garment industry took off starting with screen printing of bowling shirts and T-shirts. Colorful printed art was right behind, thanks to Michael Vasilantone, who invented the rotary multicolored screen printing press.

I truly believe that our copy machines and other mechanical means to share our ideas and creative intent are as valuable and powerful in their time—our time—as the historic processes. We’re not going to cart around an art material that requires a forklift to use it (lithographic stone slab). We do not need to use such old methods to be aesthetically valid. We do need people to be aware of art methods embodying value regardless of how it is made. Multi-million-dollar global art fairs prove this culturally and financially every year. Even blank space is part of the art experience.

We are in the newest screen age, the electronic version, and in-hand, touchable works on paper, wood, fiber, and other surfaces are now the rarities compared to the plethora of things available on an electronic screen.

Our current art wave also embraces and craves the human touch in meaningful things. Paintings are in demand, as are sculptures and other artworks as a means for creative expression for artists to make and people to have in their lives. Reproductions are still popular, with value added via the artist that hand-signs each artwork.

Let’s meet at the Art Hop and catch up!

Janet Sellers is an artist, writer, and speaker who loves to share the beauty and fun of creative thinking in art, nature, and life. Contact her at janetsellers@ocn.me.

Other Art Matters columns

Snapshots of Our Community

Monument Play Park plans, Mar. 10

Above: Thirty people attended a public meeting March 10 to give feedback and get more information on the proposed Heart of Monument Play Park. The park will be next to the Monument Community Presbyterian Church, which is donating the land. It’ll be for people of all ages and those with physical and emotional disabilities. NES Inc. will use the input from the meeting attendants as well as comments gathered by Monument Hill Kiwanis Club and the Heart of Monument Steering Committee to finalize the design of the park. NES says the design could be ready by June. It’s hoped the park will be open this summer or fall. From left, Roberta Ross, Monument Mayor Mitch LaKind, and Tri-Lakes Cares Executive Director Haley Chapin look at the project plans. Photo by Bob Harrigan.

TLC thanks Kiwanis, Mar. 30

Above: Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) has thanked Monument Hill Kiwanis Club for its contributions to TLC. Kiwanis President Scott Ross was given a certificate of appreciation on March 30. Kiwanis raises money for TLC with Empty Bowls, D38’s Harvest of Love, the Giving Tree, the North Pole Craft Fair, and food distribution during the holidays. From left are TLC Director of Operations Julie Keim, Executive Director Haley Chapin, Development Specialist Christine Bucher, and Ross. Photo by Warren Gerig.

Tri-Lakes Chamber awards, Apr. 12

Below: The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce gave out its annual awards on April 12. Sheri Miller of Mountain Wings Management was named Volunteer of the Year. Amber Jack of Edward Jones was awarded Ambassador of the Year. The honor of Businesspersons of the Year went to Shannon and Rich Schur of the Schur Success Group. The top Non-Profit award was given to Owen Schoolsky of Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club while Julie and Steven Hart of Geneva Technologies went home with the Economic Development Business award. Photos by Hannah Yeomans.

100+ Women Who Care, Apr. 17

Above: On April 17, 100+ Women Who Care Tri-Lakes gathered at the Woodmoor Barn to hear from two nominees for its bi-annual grant. The nominees included Trinity Community Park, an accessible park on the east side of I-25, and Heart of Monument Park, an all-ages, universally accessible park in the works through a partnership of the Town of Monument and the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club. The group selected Trinity Community Park for its award. Trinity Community Park is Monument’s first Americans with Disabilities (ADA) compliant community park. It is a playground for everyone at every stage of life, with equipment for all abilities and every body type. For more information, see https://trinitymonument.org/trinity-community-park. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Earth Day tree planting, Apr. 21

Above: Volunteers from Trinity Lutheran Church and the surrounding community planted 50 Douglas fir saplings at Trinity Community Park on a cold, foggy Earth Day April 21. The saplings were donated by Neighborhood Forest, a national group that gives free trees to kids to plant every Earth Day. This year, it gave away 67,000 trees. Pictured (L to R): Tamara Schwarz, Aida Richardson, Don Richardson, 101-year-old WWII vet Marie West, Patsy Janeba, and John Janeba. Photo by Tamara Schwarz.

TLWC helps charity, Apr. 15

Above: Members of the Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) sorted children’s clothing by size and gender on April 15 so it can be donated to needy families. The donations will be handled by Catholic Charities Social Services. From left are TLWC members Cindy Beley, Sandy Mangiarelli, and Sandra Sciadini. Photo by Maureen Morgan.

Chamber After Hours, Apr. 16

Above: The monthly Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event was held April 16 at Lolley’s Tasting Room. The room at 174 Washington St. is an annex to Lolley’s Ice Cream on Second Street. It can be reserved for any kind of party or get-together and holds about 75 people. The event space was packed with networking Chamber members and their guests eating food and sampling Lolley’s ice cream. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Fox Run Nature Center meeting

Above: Close to one hundred people met with executives of the El Paso County Parks and Community Services Department at Pikes Peak Brewery April 18, a rescheduled date from March 14 due to weather. Many people went to learn about the details of the proposed Fox Run Nature Center. There have been discussions about dropping the number of parking places from 60 to 30 and downsizing the canopy walk. Engineering has mapped most of the trees in the park and has looked for the least vulnerable spot for trees, plant life and wildlife, where the nature center will be built. For more information about the nature center, go to www.communityservices.elpasoco.com/nature-centers/fox-run-nature-center/. Caption by Marlene Brown. Photo by Mike Thomas.

Students win PLAG scholarships

Above: Palmer Ridge High School student Cavan Porter (left) has been awarded the top scholarship of $1,500 from the Palmer Lake Art Group (PLAG). The second-place scholarship of $1,000 went to Palmer Ridge student Marian Griffiths (right). Lewis-Palmer High School student Ella Davis was awarded a $500 scholarship. Since 1977, PLAG has awarded about $87,000 in scholarships to graduating D38 seniors planning to continue their study of the arts. A small number of artists formed the group in 1965. It now has members throughout the Pikes Peak region. Photos courtesy of PLAG.

Arbor Day in Monument, Apr. 26

Above: On April 26, people gathered near the Third Street Santa Fe Trail trailhead to celebrate Arbor Day and learn about tips for successful planting of trees in our high desert mountain clime. Town Gardener Cassie Olgren led a talk about proper planting and after-care tasks. Then visitors were given free plants to take home and put in their gardens. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Tim Watkins Trail sign reinstalled

Above: Last year, before the National Forest Service wildfire mitigation work in the Monument Preserve north of Mount Herman Road, Brian Mullin, president of Friends of Monument Preserve (FOMP), removed and stored the sign which marked the Tim Watkins Memorial Trail. The sign has been reinstalled about three-fourths mile in from the Red Rocks Road parking lot. FOMP built and maintains this trail as it does for many trails through the preserve. Watkins, a well-known part of the Tri-Lakes mountain-biking community, was killed while riding in the Mount Herman area in 2017, and his killer has not been identified. If you have any information regarding this unsolved murder, please contact the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. FOMP “trail nights” to maintain trails in the preserve are scheduled the second Thursday of May through October at 5 p.m. Meet at the Red Rocks Road parking lot just north of Mount Herman Road if you can help. Photo by Brian Mullin

Other Snapshot sections

Our Community Notices

By Janet Sellers

Although we strive for accuracy in these listings, dates or times are often changed after publication. Please double-check the time and place of any event you wish to attend by calling the information number for that event. Please notify us if your event listing needs to be updated.

Slash mulch program

Slash can be brought to the Black Forest slash and mulch program. Tree and brush debris only. This program serves fire mitigation efforts in the area and is $10 per load to drop off, regardless of size. The program also offers free mulch to take home. Details: www.BFSlash.org. See also the BOCC article on page 20.

WMMI needs volunteers

The Museum of Mining and Industry is currently recruiting for Visitor Services Associates and Guides. Please consider sharing your time and expertise. Volunteers must be 18 and older and pass a background check. For information about volunteer opportunities, please call 719-488-0880 or email at volunteer@wmmi.org.

Children’s Literacy Center

The center provides free one-on-one literacy tutoring to Tri-Lakes children in grades 1-6 who are reading below grade level! Tutoring is at the Tri-Lakes Senior Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 pm, and the Summer Session will run through Aug. 14. For more information, to become a volunteer tutor or to enroll your child, visit www.childrensliteracycenter.org or email Christine Jeffson at Christine@childrensliteracycenter.org.

Community volunteers

Many students need volunteer hours for scouting, civics classes, clubs, or would just like to volunteer for the good of it. Friends of Fox Run Park will have some openings for student volunteers (and grownups, too) most of the year for various tasks. Besides tasks, the group offers information and skills demonstrations for each 2-3 hour session, and celebrates volunteers at the park with annual community events. The Tri Lakes Cares on-site garden in Monument also needs volunteers in Fall, Spring and Summer. Gardening tasks include preparing garden beds, weeding, sowing seeds, and developing the compost. Bring gardening gloves, some tools will be provided on the workdays. Contact Janet Sellers at JanetSellers@ocn.me or Marlene Brown at MarleneBrown@ocn.me for more information.

Tri-Lakes Cares needs your support

Tri-Lakes Cares is the only food pantry and human services organization serving northern El Paso County through emergency relief and self-sufficiency programs. The community-based, volunteer-supported center is a critical resource for our neighbors in need. The best way to help support Tri-Lakes Cares is to donate. Visit https://tri-lakescares.org/donate to learn how to donate money, medical items, personal supplies, or food. Please check the web for current needs in our food pantry at https://tri-lakescares.org/donate/current-needs. Donation drop-off hours are Mon.-Thu., 9 am-4 pm. For more information about Tri-Lakes Cares or how you can help, contact Tri-Lakes Cares at 719-481-4864 or info@tri-lakescares.org.

Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center

Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center, formerly known as the Tri-Lakes Silver Alliance Senior Center, has been providing exciting programs and activities to area seniors who have a zest for fun and learning. As the older adult population is growing, our services are in high demand. 719-884-2300 66 Jefferson St, Monument. See ad on page 2.

Need PC help?

Make It Work Clinic for PCs, FREE. Donations appreciated. We are gauging interest in helping community members with their PCs, please email us if interested. enable@monumentalimpact.org. 55 Adams St in Downtown Monument. Monumental Impact info: https://monumentalimpact.org. See ad on page 4.

Can you volunteer today?

• Links to local organizations with an immediate need for volunteers are listed on the county’s website, www.elpasocountyhealth.org/volunteering-and-donations, for groups like Care and Share, Crossfire Ministries, blood donations, Early Connections (volunteer from home opportunity), foster an animal, Medical Reserve Corps of El Paso County, Salvation Army, Silver Key, and United Way (ongoing opportunities).

• The Colorado State University Extension office in El Paso County has several opportunities for individuals interested in volunteering. https://elpaso.extension.colostate.edu/volunteer-opportunities/

• El Paso County volunteer-based and nonprofit organizations rely on the hard work of individuals like you. Find out how you can play a part by becoming a volunteer in El Paso County. Get involved in El Paso County volunteering non-profits and organizations! https://www.americantowns.com/el-paso-county-co/volunteer-organizations/.

• The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Volunteer Program is composed of a collective citizens group with a true and common desire to partner with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office by volunteering their services while learning more about the internal workings of the law enforcement community. https://www.epcsheriffsoffice.com/volunteer-program-0.

• The El Paso County Volunteer Program is a wonderful opportunity for citizens to learn about the various functions of county government as well as give back to the community. The County’s numerous boards and commissions need your experience, talents and time. https://bocc.elpasoco.com/volunteer.

Other Our Community Notices sections

Our Community Calendar

By Janet Sellers

Although we strive for accuracy in these listings, dates or times are often changed after publication. Please double-check the time and place of any event you wish to attend by calling the info number for that event. Please contact calendar@ocn.me with changes and additions.

GOVERNMENTAL BODIES

  • Forest Lakes Metropolitan District, Pinon Pines Metropolitan District 1, 2 & 3 board typically meets quarterly on the first Mon. Meetings are held via teleconference. For virtual joining instructions and updates see www.forestlakesmetrodistrict.com.
  • El Paso Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) regular meeting, usually every Tue., 9 am. View agendas and meetings at www.agendasuite.org/iip/elpaso. Meetings are held at Centennial Hall, 200 S. Cascade Ave., Suite 150, Colo. Springs. Info: 719-520-643. BOCC land use meetings are held the second and fourth Thursdays of the month (as needed) at 1pm Centennial Hall.
  • Monument Town Council meeting, Mon., June 3 & 17, 6:30 pm, Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. Normally meets first and third Mon. Info: 719-884-801, www.townofmonument.org/260/Board-of-Trustees for remote attendance links.
  • Palmer Lake Board of Adjustments meeting, Tue., June 4, 5 pm, 28 Valley Crescent St., Palmer Lake. Normally meets first Tue., as needed.
  • Palmer Lake Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., June 12, 9 am, call-in only: 650-479-3208, Access Code 76439078, 120 Middle Glenway. Meets second Wed. Info: 719-481-2732. www.plsd.org.
  • Monument Planning Commission meeting, Wed., June 12, 6 pm Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. Usually meets the second Wed. To see the options for remote public participation in each meeting, visit www.townofmonument.org/263/Planning-Commission-Board-of-Adjustment. Info: 719-884-8028. www.townofmonument.org.
  • Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, Thu., June 13 &27, 5 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Usually meets second and fourth Thu. Info: 719-481-2953. www.townofpalmerlake.com.
  • Monument Academy School Board meeting, East Campus gym, 4303 Pinehurst Circle. Usually meets the second Thu. 6:30 pm Info: 719-431-8001, www.monumentacademy.net/school-board.
  • Woodmoor Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Mon., June 10, 1 pm, 1845 Woodmoor Dr., Monument. Normally meets second Mon. Info: 719-488-2525, www.woodmoorwater.com.
  • Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee meeting, Tue., June 11, 10 am, 16510 Mitchell Ave. Meets second Tue. Info: See https://tlwastewater.com/index.html Bill Burks, 719-481-4053.
  • Monument Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., June 19, 9 am, 130 Second St. Zoom meeting. Find joining instructions on the website. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-4886, www.colorado.gov/msd.
  • Academy Water and Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., June 19, 6 pm. Usually meets third Wed. Public can join the Skype meeting: https://join.skype.com/PAcujKTn7Nrh. Check the website for a link: https://academywsd.colorado.gov/notices-and-alerts. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-0711, https://academywsd.colorado.gov.
  • Palmer Lake Town Planning Commission meeting, Wed., June 19, 6 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-2953, www.townofpalmerlake.com.
  • Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District board meeting, in person or via Zoom, Wed., June 19, 7 pm, Station 1, 11445 Teachout Road, Colorado Springs. Find updates and Zoom meeting joining instructions at www.bffire.org or contact Administrative Officer Lisa Emry at 719-495-4300. Meetings are usually held on the third Wednesday.
  • El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority meeting, Thu., June 20, 9 am, Monument Town Hall Boardroom, 645 Beacon Lite Rd. Normally meets third Thu. Info: 719-488-3603. www.loopwater.org.
  • El Paso County Planning Commission meeting, Thu., June 6 & 20, 9 am. Regional Development Center, 2880 International Circle, Colo. Springs. Meetings are live-streamed on the El Paso County News & Information Channel at https://www.elpasoco.com/news-information-channel. Normally meets first & third Thu. (as required). Info: 719-520-6300, https://planningdevelopment.elpasoco.com/planning-community-development/2024-hearings-schedule/
  • Donala Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Thu., June 20, 1:30 pm, 15850 Holbein Dr. In 2023, meets third Thu., Check the website for the access code for the electronic meeting. Info: 719-488-3603, www.donalawater.org.
  • Lewis-Palmer School District 38 board meets during school year on third Mon., 6-10pm 146 N Jefferson St, Monument. The Board of Education meeting will be live-streamed on the district’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/LPSDCommunity, agenda, and supporting documents at https://go.boarddocs.com/co/lewispalmer/Board.nsf/vpublic. Contact Vicki Wood. Phone: 719.481.9546 Email: vwood@lewispalmer.org Website: https://www.lewispalmer.org.
  • Monument Fire District board meeting, in person or via Zoom, Wed., June 26, 6:30 pm. Station 1, 18650 Highway 105, Monument. Meetings are usually held on the fourth Wednesday. Find updates and Zoom meeting joining instructions at www.monumentfire.org, or contact Director of Administration Jennifer Martin, at 719-484-0911.
  • Woodmoor Improvement Association Board Meeting, Wed., June 26, 7 pm, Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. The WIA Board usually meets fourth Wed. Info: 719-488-2693, www.woodmoor.org.
  • Triview Metropolitan District board meeting, Thu., June 20, 5:30 pm, 16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 302, Monument. Normally meets third Thu. Info: 719-488-6868, www.triviewmetro.com.
  • Donald Wescott Fire Protection District board meeting, Wed. June 12 at 4:30 pm., and on Wed. 26 at 4:30 pm., (includes Volunteer Firefighter Pension Board at 4 pm); in person at Station 1, 18650 Highway 105, Monument, and via Zoom. For Zoom meeting joining instructions, agendas, minutes, and updates, visit http://www.monumentfire.org or contact Director of Administration Jennifer Martin at 719-484-9011.
  • Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee (now PCAC, formerly DAAC. No more meetings this school year. Meets six times a year. Usually meets monthly, second Tue. Contact info: tmckee@lewispalmer.org.

WEEKLY & MONTHLY EVENTS

  • AARP Black Forest #1100, second Wed., noon. In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. All ages welcome. Info: www.aarpchapter1100blackforest.weekly.com.
  • AARP Local Senior Social, fourth Wed. In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. Info: www.aarpchapter1100blackforest.weekly.com.
  • A.A. Big Book Study, every Thu., 7 pm, Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 675 W. Baptist Rd. Call 425-436-6200, access code 575176#.
  • Alcoholics Anonymous, every Tue. & Thu., 7:30 p.m. Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80908. AA is a fellowship of people who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they June solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Join us with your questions. Info: bflc@bflchurch.org.
  • Al-Anon for family and friends of alcoholics, every Tue. & Thu., 7:30 p.m. Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80908. Al-Anon members are people, just like you, who are worried about someone with a drinking problem. Join us with your questions. Info: bflc@bflchurch.org.
  • Al-Anon Zoom Meeting, Just for Today Online, every Mon., 9-10 am Zoom Meeting ID: 889 4142 7446, Password 349309.
  • Al-Anon meeting: Letting Go, every Thu., 9-10:15 am at Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd., Monument. For additional information go to www.al-anon-co.org.
  • Al-anon Meeting: Monument, every Thu., 7-8 pm, Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd., Monument. Info: MonumentSerenity@gmail.com.
  • Amateur ham radio WØTLM (Tri-Lakes Monument ham radio Association), third Mon. (except December). All amateur ham radio operators or those interested in becoming one are we, lcome. Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Building, 166 2nd Street, Monument. For details, contact Bob Witte, bob@k0nr.com or www.W0TLM.com.
  • American Legion Tri-Lakes Post 9-11, second Wed., 6:30pm, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Community Meeting House, 300 CO Hwy 105, Monument. New members welcome. Info: Visit website at www.trilakespost9-11.org.
  • Art: Open Studio painting, Wed., June 5, 9:30-noon. Donations welcome, meets monthly first Wed. Tri Lakes Senior Center, 66 Jefferson St., Monument
  • Benet Hill Monastery: Let us pray with you, walk in the forest ,walk the labyrinth, come and visit prayer sites, every Sun. worship is 10:15 am, 3190 Benet Lane, 80921. See ad on page 3.
  • Benet Hill Monastery, Half Day Prayer Group, first Sat., 9 am-12 pm. All vaccinated guests are welcome. Contact Sister Therese at (719) 355-1638 or (719) 355-1650 or stherese@benethillmonastery.org. See ad on page 3.
  • Benet Hill Monastery, Centering Prayer Group, every Tue., 10-11 am. All vaccinated guests are welcome. Contact Sister Therese at (719) 355-1638 or (719) 355-1650 or stherese@benethillmonastery.org. See ad on page 3.
  • Black Forest Community Church, Centering Prayer Group, first Sat., 8:30-10 am The Old Log Church. Centering prayer opens and closes the meetings with discussion and fellowship in between; open to all.
  • Children’s Literacy Center, every Mon. & Wed., 5:30-6:30 pm. Provides free one-on-one literacy tutoring to Tri-Lakes children in grades 1-6 who are reading below grade level. Tutoring is at Grace Best Education Center, 66 Jefferson St. Monument. For more information, to become a volunteer tutor, or to enroll your child, visit www.childrensliteracycenter.org or contact Rachel Morin, Tri-Lakes Senior Center Coordinator, CLC 610-246-1047 (cell).
  • Colorado Springs Philharmonic Guild Listening Club, third Wed. Free virtual event. Maestro Wilson will conduct monthly hour-long programs. RSVP at www.cspguild.org.
  • Dementia Caregiver Support Group, second Sat., 9:45-11:15 am. Meets in-person, First National Bank Monument ( 581 Highway 105, Monument, CO 80132). Meets monthly, 2nd Sat. Contact: Registration is required, call 800-272-3900 or email khare@alz.org to register.
  • Essential Tremor Support Group. Meets quarterly at Colorado Springs Public Library 21c, 1175 Chapel Hills Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80920. For details, contact: Jim Sanchez, 719-660-7275; jimdjs22@gmail.com.
  • Essentrics Fitness Program at Senior Center, every Tue., 9 am & Thu., 10 am, Grace Best Education Center, 66 Jefferson St, Monument, CO 80132. Registration & info: Sue Walker, 719-330-0241, www.trilakesseniors.org.
  • Fellowship of Christ Church, every Sun., 9 am. Monument Academy East Campus, 4303 Pinehurst Circle 80908.
  • Friends of Fox Run Park, Zoom meeting, fourth Thu., 7 pm, email friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com, they will email you the link the day of the meeting. Join the growing group to learn about volunteering and supporting the park for forest safety, trails, trees, education, special events, and more. Special events including “Christmas in July,” Hummingbird Festival and more, stay tuned! Info: friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com.
  • Friends of Monument Preserve (FOMP) Trail repair monthly work days, second Thu. of each month from April through October. Meet at 6 pm at the parking lot off Red Rocks Road. FOMP provides all the necessary tools but you must wear appropriate clothing for landscape work and bring gloves, a hat , eye protection, sunscreen, bug repellent and water. Check the FOMP website at www.fomp.org for additional info.
  • Fuel Church GriefShare, every Thu., 5:30-7:30 pm, 643 State Highway 105, Palmer Lake. Email info@fuel.org. 643 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake.
  • Fuel Church Sunday Service, every Sun. Service times, 11 am Live service streaming at www.fuelchurch.org at 11:40 am on www.fuelchurch.org. Mountain Community Mennonite Church, 643 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake. Nursery and kids’ service. Non-denominational, spirit-filled. Need prayer? Email us at info@fuel.org. See ad on page 5.
  • Gleneagle Sertoma, first and third Wed., 11:45 am to 1 pm. Gleneagle Sertoma is the longest continuously active civic service organization in northern El Paso County. Our regular program presenters address local topics of interest to include local developments, community planning and projects, as well as opportunities to serve your community. Contact Harvey LeCato for meeting location and club information at mbca@comcast.net or 719-331-1212.
  • Gleneagle Women’s Club, membership luncheon, third Fri., (Sep.-June), various venues, 12 activity groups, i.e., hiking, bridge, etc. Guests welcome. For information contact Susan Owen, 719-886-7110.
  • GriefShare Support Group, last Tue., 10:30 am-noon. NEW LOCATION: Tri-Lakes Senior Center, 66 Jefferson St. in the Grace Best Elementary School building. The Tri-Lakes Silver Alliance has partnered with Colorado Palliative and Hospice Care to host a 13-session grief support group in Monument. RSVP, info: Sue Walker, 719-330-0241.
  • La Leche League breastfeeding support group, second Thu., 12:30 pm. Partners and helpers welcome (and babies and kids, too) so we can meet our breastfeeding goals together. Homestead Direct Primary Care Clinic, 15455 Gleneagle Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80921. For more information, contact RachelKLangley@gmail.com.
  • Lions Club Bingo, every Sat. (except the first Sat.), 8:30 am-1 pm and first Mon., 5:30-10 pm Tri-Lakes Lions Club’s portion of the proceeds benefit those in need in the Tri-Lakes community. Updated info and location: Jim Naylor, 719-481-8741 or www.trilakeslionsclub.org.
  • Library Chess Club, We welcome anyone who wants to learn to play chess or wants to play a game with an experienced player. Contact Steve Waldmann, huskerco@gmail.com. Monument Library meeting room, 1706 Lake Woodmoor Dr., Monument (Information also on the Facebook page: Monument Library Chess Club)
  • Monument Hill Kiwanis Club meeting, every Sat., 8 am. www.MHKiwanis.org, MonumentHillKiwanis@gmail.com for details, guests are welcome. Service leadership clubs, Key clubs, Builders Club, and K-kids at D38 schools. Memberships are open to the public. Info: RF Smith, 719-210-4987, www.MHKiwanis.org.
  • Monument Life Recovery Group, every Mon., 6:30-7:30 pm, The Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd. This faith-based support group is for those seeking freedom from all hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Daycare for children under age 11. Info: 303-946-2659, www.liferecoverygroups.com/meetings/life-recovery-group-3/.
  • Neighborhood Net Ham Radio, every Sat., 10 am Amateur ham radio operators practice for emergencies on weekly repeater nets so neighbors can help neighbors. Sign up at www.mereowx.org/neighborhood-net or contactus@mereowx.org.
  • Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations (NEPCO) meeting, Sat., June 13, 10 am–12 pm., Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Members of local HOAs are welcome. Usually meets bi-monthly (Jan., Mar., June, July, Sep., Nov.) on the second Sat. of the month. www.nepco.org.
  • Palmer Divide Quiltmakers, first Thu., 6:30-8:30 pm at Monument Chamber of Commerce building, 166 2nd St, Monument, CO.
  • Palmer Lake Art Group, second Sat. A variety of art programs are offered after the social gathering and business meetings. Guests welcome. 300 Hwy 105, NE corner of I-25 and 105. 9:30 am. Info: 719-460-4179, www.palmerlakeartgroup.com.
  • Palmer Lake Historical Society, Thu., June 16, 7 pm; (doors open at 6:30 pm), Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent St. Usually meets third Thu. Contact: Kokesdm@yahoo.com, https://palmerdividehistory.org.
  • Pikes Peak Genealogical Society meeting, Wed., June 8, 7 pm. Meets monthly, second Wed. Members can log in and get the monthly meeting Zoom link. Guests are welcome to attend, please request an invitation from the PPGS president at www.PPGS.org.
  • Ridgeview Baptist Church, every Sun., 10:30 am, temporarily meeting at 9130 Explorer Dr., Colorado Springs, 80920. Info: 719-357-6515 or www.ridgeviewcolorado.org. See ad on page 6.
  • Senior Bingo, third Wed. Silver Alliance Senior Center, Space is limited to 16. participants. RSVP & info: Sue Walker, 719-464-6873, or email sue@monumentalfitness.
  • Senior Book Club, second Fri., 11 am-noon, Silver Alliance Senior Center, all are welcome. Coffee & snacks. RSVP & info: Sue, 719-330-0241.
  • Tri-Lakes United Methodist Church, every Sun., Contemporary 9 am; Traditional 10:30 am. A live stream is available at www.tlumc.org/live. Watch live or replay: www.facebook.com/tlumc, www.youtube.com/tlumc.org. Info: 719-488-1365, www.tlumc.org. 20256 Hunting Downs Way, Monument.
  • Tri-Lakes Church of Christ Wednesday night fellowship classes, every Wed., 6-7:30 pm, 20450 Beacon Lite Road, Monument (corner of Beacon Lite & County Line Roads). Info: 719-488-9613, gregsmith@trilakeschurch.org, www.trilakeschurch.org.
  • Tri-Lakes Cruisers, first Wed., 7 pm. A nonprofit car club. Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce community room, with numerous activities and events each month. Club membership applications are now being accepted and are available on the website: https://tl-cruisers.weebly.com.
  • Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Networking breakfast, first and third Thu., in person or via Zoom 166 2nd Street Monument 7:30-9 am free registration at www.TriLakeschamber.com.
  • Tri-Lakes Church of Christ Cabin Conversations: fellowship with meals. every Wed., 6 pm 20450 Beacon Lite Rd.
  • Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club meeting, monthly first and third Thu. 6 pm-8 pm. First Thursday via zoom and third Thursday in person at the Chamber of Commerce, 166 2nd St., Monument. Details: www.tlrotary.com. Trilakesdynamicrotary@gmail.com. Guests welcome. We are a service club serving Tri-Lakes. Memberships open to the public. Info: www.tlrotary.com.
  • Tri-Lakes Parkinson’s Disease Support Group, third Sat., 10 am-noon, Monument Community Presbyterian Church, 238 Third St., Monument. Info: Syble Krafft, 719-488-2669; Barry (group president), 719-351-9485. If you need any help, please call Syble or Barry.
  • Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) monthly meeting, Fri., June 17, 11:30 am. Program: Business Meeting Eisenhower Golf Club, USAFA. Usually meets monthly on the third Fri. To become a member, or learn about the club, visit our website at www.tlwc.net Contact Info: Tri-Lakes Women’s Club membership@tlwc.net.
  • Women’s A. A. Step Study, every Mon., 6:30 pm, meeting remotely, check for details. Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 675 Baptist Rd. Park in the west lot. Info: 866-641-9190. Al-Anon Zoom Meeting, Just for Today Online, every Mon., 9:00 – 10:00 am Zoom Meeting ID: 889 4142 7446, Password 349309
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 7829, third Wed., 7 pm, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce community room, 166 2nd St., Monument. New members welcome. Info: Post Commander and POC Bruce Beyerly, Bruce.Beyerly@gmail.com.
  • VFW Auxiliary to Post 7829, third Wed., 7p.m. Meets at Victory Baptist Church, 325 2nd Street, Suite X, Monument. Guests are welcome to join; if you are a relative of a veteran who served on foreign soil during war or other military actions, you June be eligible. For more information please contact Kathy Carlson, 719-488-1902, carlsonmkc@gmail.com or Linda Lyons, 303-579-8114, lindalyons7829@gmail.com.

SPECIAL EVENTS

  • VOLUNTEER TODAY! Our Community News: volunteer mailing days, Thu. May 30 & June 27, approx. 7-8:30 am. We are all volunteers at OCN and need YOUR help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail. Contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
  • Claudia Swenson celebration of life, Sat., June 1, noon, 463 Washington St., Monument. “Second Line” jazz style parade to the park. At the park, we will have music and food and many toasts to the amazing woman that Claudia was. If you would like to contribute something in her honor, please go to https://gofund.me/916830da.
  • Kids fishing derby at the lake of Palmer Lake, Sat., June 1. Bring your own fishing gear and bait (salmon eggs or worms are good) but some limited gear available, learn to fish, prizes awarded, more. Ages 4-14, 8-11:30am. To enter, bring a non-perishable food item for Tri Lakes Cares. Sponsored by the Lions Club.
  • Monument Hill Farmers market every Sat., 8:00 to 2:00 p.m. d38 Lewis Palmer admin building, 66 Jefferson Street, Monument, see ad on page 5.
  • YMCA children’s mini camps, June 3 – August 1, Mondays through Thursdays. Summer themed projects each week, ages 4 through 10. See Ed on page 6
  • Palmer Lake Library sponsors Wishing Star Farms, Thu., June 6, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM. Come to the library to meet some friendly animals. These programs are held outdoors for ages 0 – 12. at the Village Green in front of Town Hall.
  • Town of Monument, concerts in the Park, all summer Wed. starting June 6, Limbach park. See ad on page 8.
  • MVEA annual meeting, Thu. June 6, El Paso County Fairgrounds. See ad on page 11.
  • Silver Key Tri-Lakes Thrift Store Re-Grand Opening; Fri., June 7, 9am-10am. The community is invited to join the ribbon cutting ceremony with the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce . Light refreshments will be served, 755 CO-105, Palmer Lake, CO 80133.
  • Covered Treasures Bookstore, Sat., June 8, 1-3, author Linda Wommack signing The Women of the Colorado Mines and Warrior Woman: The Story of Mo-Chi, A Southern Cheyenne. Fourth Friday Art Hop, June 28, 5-8, Scott Graham signing Death Valley Duel and Aaron Johnson signing Danger in Zion National Park. 105 Second Street, Monument.
  • Space Foundation kids’ summer fun weeks, June 10-14, or June 15-19, see ad on page 12.
  • Palmer Lake historical society Father’s Day ice cream social Sun., June 16, Palmer Lake Town Hall.
  • Book Launch and historic tour, Sat., June 22. Dan Edwards The U.S. Forest Service Monument Nursery, 1907-1965, 11:00-1:00 pm; an illustrated talk about the background of the book and the story about why it was written. Books will be available. The author will lead a short tour at the current Monument Preserve to walk to the historic Memorial Grove following the program. Presented by Covered Treasures bookstore. Tri-Lakes Chamber Building 166 Second Street, historic downtown Monument.
  • Public hearing on proposed D38 budget Mon., June 17, 6:00 p.m. Any person paying school taxes in said district may, prior to the final adoption of the budget, file or register objections thereto. See ad on page 6
  • Summer solstice labyrinth retreat, Sisters of Benet Hill, June 21-23, register at www.benethillmonastery.org. see ad on page 3.
  • Shakespeare in the Park Two Gents Sat., June 22, 2pm & 6pm, at Palmer Lake Town Hall and The Village Green.Free. sponsored by Palmer Lake arts council.
  • Front Range Maker’s Market Shop, Sat., June 22, 9-4, Sun., June 23, 10-3. Indoors at Lewis-Palmer HS. 125+ local makers & artisans. Info: www.FRmakersmarket.com see ad on page 24.
  • The ArtSites public artworks, managed by the Town of Monument, hosts a permanent collection and an annual rotating exhibit that is part of the exhibit through a juried selection process. This year the Town of Monument celebrates their new exhibiting artists with an Artist reception that aligns with the downtown Art Hop on June 28.
  • Annual Paradise Ponds tour Sat.-Sun., June 29-30. Self-guided charity pond and waterfall tour. Visit several water feature exhibits throughout Colorado Springs, Monument, and the surrounding area. Purely Ponds & Waterfalls will match and donate all proceeds from ticket sales to The Boys & Girls Club of the Pikes Peak Region. Ticket book with map $5, https://purelyponds.com/parade-of-ponds/.
  • Tri lakes Church of Christ VBS, Mon-Thu., June 24-27. See ad on page 7.
  • Affordable Flooring Connection. See ad on page 2.
  • Eagle Wine & Spirits, special offers through June 30. Baptist Road next to King Soopers. See ad on page 3.
  • Gleneagle Candle Company, Summer sunset collection Sat., June 1. See ad on page 3.
  • Kiwanis Monument Hill club 4th of July parade registration now open www.mhq1s.org, see ad on page 2.
  • The Love Shop: restore your furs, June 19,20, 10 -5:30 p.m.251 front Street Monument, see ad on page 9.
  • Monumental Med Spa special offers for June, see ad on page 7.
  • Mesa Health and Aesthetics. Bring ad for a special offer 1730 Lake Woodmoor Dr., Monument, see ad on page 2.
  • Monument Art Hop, Fri., JUne 28. Fourth Fridays, through September, 5-8 pm, Downtown Monument. See ad on page 3.
  • Monument Cleaners, special offers through June 30. 15932 Jackson Creek Pkwy., in Monument Marketplace. See ad on page 5.
  • Mountain View Pella windows, special offers. See ad on page 24.
  • Noel Relief Centers, new patient specials, new treatment options. 950 Baptist Rd #130, Monument. See ad on page 7.
  • PeakView Windows, special offers for June. See ad on page 24.
  • Palmer Lake historical society book launch, Thu., June 6, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Palmer Lake Town Hall, see ad on page 4.
  • The Living Room Plants, special offers through June 30. See ad on page 5.
  • Tri-Lakes Collision and Auto Service Center, special offers through June 30. See ad on page 5.
  • Western Museum of Mining and Industry family days in June, July, Aug. Special STEAM camp. See ad on page 12.
  • YMCA summer day camp for ages 5-12, www.ppymca.org/daycamp see ad on page 6.
  • Annual July 4th festivities. For details check www.trilakeschamber.com and www.mhkiwanis.org.
  • Chautauqua Palmer Lake, July 29 – Aug. 4, multiple events each day at various Palmer Lake locations. Events for all ages: Vocal and instrumental concerts, lectures, cooking demos, daily yoga and tai chi, poetry slams, PLAG-sponsored Plein Air contest, guided walks and tours, Feldenkrais classes, and more. Complete calendar of events, times, locations at https://ChautauquaPalmerLake.org. Sponsored by Palmer Lake Arts Council.
  • Trinity Community Park, grand opening, Sat., Aug. 24, games, prizes, crafts.

Our community calendar carries listings on a space-available basis for Tri-Lakes events that are sponsored by local governmental entities and not-for-profit organizations. We include events that are open to the general public and are not religious or self-promotional in nature. If space is available, complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. To have your event listed at no charge in Our Community Calendar, please send the information to calendar@ocn.me or Our Community News, P.O. Box 1742, Monument, Colorado 80132.

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