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

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Articles from Vol. 23 No 10 - October 7, 2023

High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG) – Gardening with cinnamon; fall tool care

By Janet Sellers

“It’s amazing how many worries are lost while gardening.”—”The Empress of Dirt”

Cinnamon is good for people and gardens

I’ve used cinnamon for flower pots and veggie beds to keep out critters with success, but I recently learned about the wide range of how it helps gardening. Cinnamon has gotten more expensive recently, so I have also used pepper flakes and cayenne powder instead—which started with trying to keep our kitten off the Christmas tree branches. It worked great for that.

Cinnamon protects soil and plants from fungi, rot, and more. It deters houseflies, aphids, moths, ants, and spiders even from our closets. I put cinnamon oil or powder on pine cones in a dish or on a shelf—even on a ribbon to dangle by the door. Cornell University cooperative extension reports pesticidal uses include insecticide and acaricide. Repellent of cockroaches, mosquitoes, dogs, and cats. Nematicide for plant parasitic nematodes. Fungicide for disease control in edible mushrooms and more.

The website www.realmissolliesoakland.com/ reports, “… Cinnamon has lots of eugenol, a popular insect-repellent ingredient. The spicy heat and strong aroma of cinnamon can also disrupt insect pheromones, separating them from their fellow bugs and disrupting communication.” It is very good for human food since it has iron, calcium, fiber, various vitamins, and manganese. It also contains carbs, fats, lipids, and proteins.

Tool care in fall in our high desert climate

The Empress of Dirt website (a fun favorite of mine) offers advice for good fall routines: Paint the ends of tools bright colors, rinse off tools in diluted household bleach (4 teaspoons bleach for quart of water) for one minute and then dry well.

Kevin at the Epic Gardening website has rusty tool hints: Clean pruners in a white vinegar bath. Just put the tool in a jar that fits the tool head, add vinegar up past the rust area, and next day the rust is in the vinegar. Then tackle the rest with a kitchen scrub pad and get all the rust and crud off. Then lube and protect with 3-in-1 oil. I clean my hands with Dawn dish soap, but many use Lava soap which has scrubbing pumice in it.

Wooden handles: Sand and protect with boiled linseed oil. Protect moving parts with 3-in-1 oil or WD-40 (check with the manufacturer’s instructions). I use a sponge sander for the handles. I spray WD-40 on cutting tools and use folded 400 grit sandpaper in a back-and-forth motion to sharpen tools. (I dip things like shovels in a bucket of sand to clean them off, and the sand also seems to help the edges). Many people take their tools to a pro for this.

Janet Sellers is an avid “lazy” gardener, letting Nature lead the way for fun kid-and pet-safe gardening. Contact her at JanetSellers@ocn.me.

Other High Altitude and Nature Gardening articles

Art Matters – October is Arts Month

By Janet Sellers

September was the last Art Hop month of the season, but we have more art events coming up for fall. October brings its own art events and fun for the Pikes Peak Region, the annual Arts Month. This year marks the 10th annual event. The theme is “Open Your World with the Arts” and explore the strength and vitality of our arts community throughout El Paso and Teller counties.

This annual event is the brainchild of COPP’R, the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region created to build cultural promotion and cultural tourism. “The Cultural Office increases cultural participation among local residents and tourists, connects our arts community with peers in the tourism and media industries, and ultimately works to build our area as a regional, national, and international arts destination,” according to the office. Besides art to see and buy in our Pikes Peak region, the office is cooking up a Creative Stays program to attract cultural tourists to the region. This will offer a new way to explore and discover the wonderful attractions and amenities our region has to offer.

Palmer Lake Art Group Small Works Show

Palmer Lake Art Group (PLAG) has its third annual Small Works Show this year at Bella Art and Frame Gallery (250 Front St., Monument) Oct. 6 through Nov. 24. It’s a member show with small artworks just in time for holiday gifting. Throughout the show, artists will replace each sold piece with a new one, so the work on view will be changing throughout the Small Works Show.

Artist Sunday

This special event is always the Sunday after Thanksgiving—mark your calendar! It seems the Thanksgiving weekend is the holiday kickoff for shopping, and artists are joining the fun by having their own national day offering truly personal and unique gifts. “A gift of art is a gift of feeling.”

Artist Sunday includes 500-plus art organizations and economic development agencies across the country promoting and championing artists in their communities. Participating organizations include local arts agencies, state agencies, counties, chambers of commerce, national organizations, associations, municipalities, and community groups nationwide. View the Partner Directory for local partners: https://artistssunday.com/locations/.

Janet Sellers is an artist, writer, and speaker, sharing her works locally and across the country. Contact her at JanetSellers@ocn.me.

Other Art Matters articles

Snapshots of Our Community

Table of Contents

Fox Run Park trail work

Above: Volunteers from the Friends of Fox Run Park worked on the trails in Fox Run Regional Park in August and September. After over 60 days of rain in the area, the trails were heavily damaged. Thanks to the El Paso County Parks Department providing the gravel and road base, several volunteers worked to build water bars and fill some of the ruts caused by the rains. Pictured are, from left, Katie Lenger, Barb Heidmous, and Albert Koscienlny. For more information on volunteering, email friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com. Photo by Marlene Brown.

Bye Bye Summer!

Above: There were plenty of ways area residents could say goodbye to summer on Labor Day, Sept. 4. Monument Lake was full of boaters, paddle boarders, parasailers, sunbathers, and anglers. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Gleneagle Sertoma raises $40,000

Above: Gleneagle Sertoma’s 22nd annual Patriot Golf Benefit Tournament raised over $40,000 on Aug. 23 at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs. The money will help local law enforcement and military assistance programs. The event started as a way to honor the first responders who died on 9/11. The tournament began when 126 golfers left the clubhouse in a procession of flag-decked golf carts. In photo, a banner pays tribute to the fallen officers whose families have received significant contributions from past tournaments’ proceeds. Photo courtesy of Gleneagle Sertoma Club.

Burkart/Raper wedding, Sept. 16

Above: Our Community News volunteer Audrey Burkart married Ryan Raper in front of more than 100 people in Colorado Springs on Sept. 16. It was a costume wedding with an adventure theme. Burkart and Raper wore purple outfits made by her mother to go for a “regal look.” Burkart embroidered them herself. The couple met online 3½ years ago. Raper proposed on New Year’s Eve 2022. After the ceremony, Burkart and Raper went on a 15-day honeymoon in Venice, the Dolomite mountains in Italy, and then a cruise from Venice to Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece. Caption by Michael Weinfeld. Photo courtesy of Audrey Burkart.

Bines and Brews, Sept. 16

Above: OCN volunteer Chris Jeub and his son enjoy beer samples Sept. 16 at the annual Bines and Brews Beer Fest in Monument, organized by the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce. Twenty breweries and several vendors joined in the fun. Photo by Chris Jeub.

Acoustic Eidolon at TLCA, Sept. 16

Above: OCN volunteer Chris Jeub and his son enjoy beer samples Sept. 16 at the annual Bines and Brews Beer Fest in Monument, organized by the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce. Twenty breweries and several vendors joined in the fun. Photo by Chris Jeub.

Last 2023 Art Hop, Sept. 21

Above: On Sept. 21, poets Janet Sellers, left, and Mary Barrett Brown read from their poetry books at the season’s ultimate Art Hop event at Bella Art and Frame gallery. Amid the festive atmosphere, the poets read their works each hour, complete with large onscreen images personally created by the artist-poets. Brown read from her book, The Book of Divine Love, her published book of heart-opening poems of love and personal connection. Sellers read from her artist’s handmade imagery and haiku book, Immersion: Haiku Poems about her memories and adventures of her life near the Pacific Ocean told in short haiku form. Photo courtesy of Tom Brown.

Monu-Palooza, Sept. 3

Above: The seventh annual Monu-Palooza, billed as Monument’s Hometown Music Festival, was held during Labor Day weekend on Sept. 3 at Limbach Park. This year’s music lineup included local bands Skin & Bones, Missy & The Dirty Secrets, Mojo Filter, Ashtōnz, WireWood Station, and The Country Music Project from Denver. Monu-Palooza organizer Charlie Searle said, “This has been the best one yet, the weather has cooperated, the bands are terrific, and we have added a street fair and more food trucks and sponsors” for concert-goers to enjoy. Guitarist and singer Billy Flynn of Mojo Filter said Monu-Palooza is “a beautiful event arranged by Charlie and a nice end to the summer season.” Photo by David Futey.

American Legion honors 9/11

Above: American Legion Post 9-11 held a solemn ceremony at Monument Fire Department’s Station 1 on the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Flags were raised then lowered to half-staff at the time the first plane hit the World Trade Center in New York. Palmer Ridge High School student Ruby Taylor sang the National Anthem and Post 9-11 Padre Jim Bergeron led the crowd in prayer. Members of the Monument Police and Fire departments and town officials attended the ceremony. From left are Police Chief Patrick Regan, American Legion Post 9-11 historian Ray Kinder, and Monument Fire Chief Andy Kovacs. Photo by Arleen Kinder.

Run4Hope, Sept. 16

Above: These children took off like lightning when the Run4Hope started. Run4Hope 5K for Schools is a competitive 5K run and 2-mile color-fun run/walk to celebrate hope and healing in our community. There were 500 pounds of colored chalk, games, music, vendors, and a pancake breakfast for the Sept. 16 run. The event, supported by the Ascent church and many sponsors, raises money to support the social and emotional wellness of our youth through various programs in local area schools focusing on suicide prevention—along with mental health awareness and suicide prevention training in El Paso County. As of 2022, the church had raised over $140,000 in support of these programs, including funding of the Sources of Strength program for D20 and D38 high schools. See https://run4hope5kforschools.com/ to donate or volunteer for next year. Photo by Janna Finn.

Business After Hours, Sept. 19

Above: The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce held its Business After Hours gathering on Sept. 19 at the Searle Ranch in Monument. This gathering is an opportunity for networking and getting to know more about businesses in our area. Texas Roadhouse provided food. Photo by Steve Pate.

Controlled burn, Sept. 25-27

Above: Large plumes of smoke were visible in Monument from the prescribed burns on Sept. 25-27. The U.S. Forest Service and the El Paso County Wildland Fire Group carried out the three-day controlled burns in Ensign Gulch near Rampart Range Road, and Forest Service Road 314. The burn covered almost 400 acres and is part of an ongoing effort to reduce forest fire fuel in the area. Caption by Natalie Barszcz. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Zettlemoyer earns Gold Award

Above: Colorado Springs Girl Scout Jillian Zettlemoyer, 18, (in photo) built a sandbox for the new Trinity Community Park in Monument. Zettlemoyer spent about eight months planning and building the project to earn the Scouts’ Gold Award. Fewer than 6 percent of Girl Scouts earn that award. She got help from her parents and some Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps cadets. The playground is fully compliant with the American With Disabilities Act. It’s located behind Trinity Lutheran Church at 17750 Knollwood Drive. Photo by Tamara Schwarz.

Chapin honored

Above: Tri-Lakes Cares Executive Director Haley Chapin has been selected as one of four honorees for the Colorado Health Foundation’s Nonprofit Sabbatical Program. The program awards Colorado nonprofit executives with a three- to four-month sabbatical while offering charitable funding to help strengthen the organizations they lead. Chapin will take sabbatical various times next year. Director of Operations Julie Keim will take over for Chapin when she’s gone. Photo courtesy of Tri-Lakes Cares.

Teens learn preparedness

Above: The emergency preparedness club at Palmer Ridge High School tested solar oven cooking as an alternative energy source to use when there is no power, either after a blizzard or when going camping. In this demonstration, the club baked banana muffins in a commercial solar oven (successfully) and hard-cooked eggs in a solar oven made out of a reflective car window shade (which would have been successful with another hour of cooking). Lessons learned: You can’t rush it when doing solar cooking, and it only works when the sun is shining and it’s not too windy. Coming up this year, the club members will do hands-on learning about first aid, car emergencies, wildfires, and lots more, with the support of sponsor Eric Wall. Caption by Lisa Hatfield. Photo by Gayle Humm.

Presentation at the Senior Center

Above: Nearly 20 people attended a talk about Monument Cemetery at the Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center on Sept. 26. The presentation by Monument residents Michael Weinfeld and John Howe included almost 50 photos of the local cemetery as well as cemeteries in Denver and Silverton, Colo., Taos, N.M., and Bridgeport, Conn. The audience heard about the history of the cemeteries and how Weinfeld and Howe updated the cemetery files in Monument Town Hall. Howe worked on the project for 13 years and Weinfeld for five years. Photos by Tia M. Mayer.

Above: Michael Weinfeld reveals at Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center the cemetery’s oldest marked grave (19 sec)

Above: Michael Weinfeld tells Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center about murder victim buried at cemetery. (18 sec)

Above: John Howe at Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center says ground penetrating radar found some graves. (1 min 25 sec)

Above: John Howe at Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center says some graves were found by “poking around.” (1 min 37 sec)

Military retirees, spouses honored

Above: Chapter 1100 of AARP in Black Forest was one of 55 groups that took part in Military Retiree and Spouse Appreciation Day at Petersen Air Force Base on Sept. 23. This was the first time in five years the event was held because of restrictions during the pandemic. Perhaps because of that, this year’s attendance was bigger than usual. Those in attendance represented community service and military retirement groups from all branches of the Armed Forces as well as insurance, medical, banking, and other groups. A military brass quintet serenaded the large turnout. Photo by Stan Beckner.

Super Blue Moon

Above: A super blue moon rose above a high school soccer match at Don Breese Stadium on Aug. 30. A blue moon isn’t actually blue. It just refers to the fact that it was the second full moon in the same month. The phenomenon is so rare, it’s the source of the phrase “once in a blue moon.” The next super blue moon won’t rise until January 2037. The celestial event wasn’t a lucky one for Palmer Ridge High School. The Bears were shut out by Coronado 2-0. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Other Snapshots of Our Community

Our Community Notices

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.

Community volunteers

Many students need volunteer hours for scouting, civics classes, or other clubs volunteering hours. Friends of Fox Run Park will have some openings for student volunteers (and grownups, too) most of the year. Friends of Fox Run Park has openings for volunteers for various tasks. Besides tasks, the group offers information and skills demonstration for each 2-3 hour session, and celebrates volunteers at the park with the annual community holiday cheer/ ornament party in December. The Tri Lakes Cares on-site Garden in Monument 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.

MVEA outage notifications

Please add your phone number to your MVEA account to streamline outage reporting and restoration notifications. To report an outage please call or text “OUT” to (800) 388-9881. Visit MVEA’s Outage Center before the storm. There is information about preparing for outages, electrical safety, outage reporting, a link to the outage map, and more.

Trail repair volunteers needed

Friends of Monument Preserve (FOMP) needs volunteers to help repair the trails in the National Forest Open Space surrounding the Monument Fire Center. The Forest Service recently completed the second phase of Fire Mitigation work and many of the social trails have been damaged. The Forest Service relies on FOMP to maintain these trails. Trail Repair workdays are scheduled on the second Tuesday of the month from April-October. Next meeting: Tue., Sep. 9, 5 pm. Meet at the Mt. Herman trailhead off Mt. Herman Rd and Nursery Rd and bring gloves. Tools will be provided.

Get Help in Larkspur

Larkspur Church has a Food Bank and Care Center that offer a good variety of non-perishable food items, as well as clothing for men, women, and children, some household items available too. We’re here to help. If you are in need, or know someone who is, please reach out to Jeff at gethelp@larkspur.church. If you would like to donate contact Jeff by the same email to arrange a pick up.

The Sunflower is for people with non-visible disabilities

Watch for green and yellow sunflower lanyards, bracelets, and ribbons, discreet ways to make the invisible visible. Wearing the Sunflower discreetly indicates to people around the wearer including staff, colleagues and health professionals that they need additional support, help or a little more time. However big or small, your help moves us closer to a society where people recognize that an offer of help, understanding and kindness can make a huge difference to the daily experiences that a Sunflower wearer has. For more information: www.flydenver.com/accessibility, www.hdsunflower.com/us/, and www.disabled-world.com/disability/types/invisible/.

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.

Senior Beat newsletter—subscribe for free

Each monthly Senior Beat newsletter is full of information for local seniors, including the daily menu of the senior lunches offered Monday through Friday at the Mountain Community Mennonite Church, 643 Highway 105, Palmer Lake. It also contains the schedule of the classes and events for the month at the Senior Citizens Center and senior-friendly library programs. To subscribe, send an email with your name and mailing address to SeniorBeat@TriLakesSeniors.org. Senior Beat can also be viewed online at www.TriLakesSeniors.org.

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 are ommitted to building healthy, caring communities and rely on the hard work of individuals like you. Reach out today and 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.
  • Children’s Literacy 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 our 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.

Other Notices of Our Community

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 meeting. Typically meets quarterly on the first Mon., 4 pm Meetings are held via teleconference. For virtual joining instructions and updates see www.forestlakesmetrodistrict.com.
  • Monument Town Council meeting, Mon., Oct. 2 & 16, 18, 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.
  • El Paso Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) regular meeting, usually every Tue., 9 am. There is an additional regular meeting scheduled for Thu., Oct. 19, 9 am. BOCC land use meetings in Oct. are being held on Thu. Oct. 12 & 26, 1 pm. 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.
  • El Paso County Planning Commission meeting, Thu., Oct. 5 & 19, 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/2023-meetings/
  • Woodmoor Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Mon., Oct. 9, 1 pm (one- time date change), 1845 Woodmoor Dr., Monument. Normally meets second Mon. Info: 719-488-2525, www.woodmoorwater.com.
  • Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee meeting, Tue., Oct 10, 10 am 16510 Mitchell Ave. Meets second Tue. Info: See https://tlwastewater.com/index.html Bill Burks, 719-481-4053.
  • Palmer Lake Board of Adjustments, Tue., Oct. 10, 5 pm, 28 Valley Crescent St., Palmer Lake. Normally meets first Tues., as needed.
  • Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee (formerly DAAC), Tue., Oct. 10, Palmer Lake Elementary School, 115 Upper Glenway Palmer Lake. Meets six times a year. Usually meets monthly on second Tue., 6-8 pm, Monument. Contact info: tmckee@lewispalmer.org.
  • Palmer Lake Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Oct. 11, 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., Oct. 11, 6 pm Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. Meets 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.
  • Monument Academy School Board, Thu., Oct. 12, 6:30 pm, East Campus gym, 4303 Pinehurst Circle. The MA board usually meets the second Thu. of the month. Info: 719-431-8001, www.monumentacademy.net/school-board
  • Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, Thu., Oct. 12 & 26, 5 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent, Usually meets second and fourth Thu. Info: 719-481-2953. www.townofpalmerlake.com.
  • Monument Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Oct. 18, 9 am, 130 Second St. Zoom meeting. Find joining instructions on the website. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-4886, www.colorado.gov/msd.
  • Palmer Lake Town Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Oct. 18, 6 pm, Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-2953, www.townofpalmerlake.com.
  • Academy Water and Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Oct. 18, 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.
  • Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District board meeting, in person or via Zoom, Wed., Oct. 18, 7 pm, Station 1, 11445 Teachout Road, Colorado Springs. Find updates and Zoom meeting joining instructions at www.bffire.org or contact Administrative Officer Rachel Dunn at 719-495-4300. Meetings are usually held on the third Wednesday.
  • El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority meeting, Thu., Oct. 19, 9 am Monument Town Hall Boardroom, 645 Beacon Lite Rd. Meets third Thu. Info: 719-488-3603. www.loopwater.org.
  • Donala Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Thu., Oct. 19, 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.
  • Triview Metropolitan District board meeting, Thu., Oct. 19, 5:30 pm, 16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 302, Monument. Normally meets third Thu. Info: 719-488-6868, www.triviewmetro.com.
  • Lewis-Palmer School District 38 board meeting, Mon., Oct. 23, 6-10 pm. Normally meets third Mon. 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.
  • Woodmoor Improvement Association Board Meeting, Wed., Oct. 25, 7 pm, Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. The WIA Board usually meets fourth Wed. Info: 719-488-2693, www.woodmoor.org.
  • Monument Fire District board meeting, in person or via Zoom, Wed., Oct. 25, 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 http://www.monumentfire.org, or contact Director of Administration Jennifer Martin, at 719-484-0911.
  • Donald Wescott Fire Protection District meeting, Meets every other month on the fourth Wed. The next meeting is Wed., Nov. 15, 4:30 pm, at Station 1, 18650 Highway 105 Monument. Find updates and Zoom meeting joining instructions at http://www.monumenfire.org or contact Jennifer Martin, at 719-484-0911.

WEEKLY & MONTHLY EVENTS

  • AARP Local Senior Social, fourth Wed., 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 may 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: Monument, every Thu., 7-8 pm, Ascent Church (formerly the Tri-Lakes Chapel), 1750 Deer Creek Rd., Monument. Info: MonumentSerenity@gmail.com.
  • 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.
  • Amateur ham radio WØTLM (Tri-Lakes Monument ham radio Association), third Mon. All amateur ham radio operators or those interested in becoming one are welcome. Info: www.W0TLM.com.
  • Benet Hill Monastery, Let us pray with you, walk in the forest, come up 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 >.
  • AARP Black Forest #1100, second Wed., noon. All ages welcome. In-person, Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd.
  • 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. Contact Rev. Roger Butts, at 719-433-3135, for information.
  • 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.
  • 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. 4303 Pinehurst Circle. See ad on page < 6 >.
  • Friends of Fox Run Park, fourth Thu. Zoom meeting, 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. Info: friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com.
  • Friends of Monument Preserve (FOMP) Trail Repair monthly Work Days, second Tue. Apr.-Oct. Next meeting: Tue., Oct. 10, 5 pm. Meet at Mt Herman Trailhead at the corner of Mt Herman Rd and Nursery Rd, bring gloves. FOMP needs volunteers to help repair the trails in the National Forest Open Space surrounding the Monument Fire Center. The Forest Service recently completed the second phase of Fire Mitigation work and many of the social trails have been damaged. The Forest Service relies on FOMP to maintain these trails. Tools will be provided.
  • 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, 11:00 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 >.
  • German Conversation Group, every Mon., 1:30 pm, Monument Library, 1706 Woodmoor Drive. Public welcome with Intermediate to Advanced German speaking skills.
  • Gleneagle Sertoma, first and third Wed., 11:45 am to 1 pm at Beasts and Brews, 7 Spectrum Loop, Colorado Springs. The longest continuously serving civic service organization in northern El Paso County features a program speaker addressing local topics of interest. Info: Duane Gritzmaker, dwgritz@gmail.com or 719-649-9220.
  • 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. of the month, 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 Mon., 7 pm. Partners and helpers welcome (and babies and kids, too) so we can meet our breastfeeding goals together. Black Forest Community Center 12530 Black Forest Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80908. 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.
  • Monument 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.
  • 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., Nov. 11, 10 am–12 pm., Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. HOA legal topics. Members of local HOAs are welcome. Usually meets bi-monthly (Jan., Mar., May, July, Sep., Nov.) on the second Sat. of the month. www.nepco.org.
  • Old Fashioned Community Sing-along. First and third Mon. 5:30 to 6:30 pm Black Forest Community Church 6845 Shoup Rd. Come share the joy of singing old, familiar, catchy tunes just for fun. For details: kay@stricklan.net.
  • 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., Oct. 19., 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., Oct. 11, 7 pm, Cheri Daniels and the macabre side of genealogy. Normally 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.com.
  • 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 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 United Methodist Church, Worship every Sun., 9 am Contemporary; 10:30 am Traditional. 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. See ad on page < 2 >.
  • 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 Women’s Club (TLWC) monthly meeting. Fri., Oct. 13, 11:30 a.m. Falcon Club, USAFA. Guest speaker Nancy Pokorny (TLWC Member and Past President) shares insights through pictures, video and stories gleaned from visiting 58 countries. Usually meets 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 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., 7 pm, The Country Club at Woodmoor, 18945 Pebble Beach Way, Monument. Guests are welcome to join; contact carlsonmkc@aol.com for instructions on how to connect. If you are a relative of a veteran who served on foreign soil during war or other military action, you may be eligible. Info: Kathy Carlson, 719-488-1902, carlsonmkc@aol.com.

SPECIAL EVENTS

  • VOLUNTEER TODAY! Our Community News mailing days, Thu., Oct. 5 & Nov. 2, approx. 9 am–2 pm. 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.
  • Pikes Peak Brewing Company Pop-up Smokehouse, every Fri., & Sat. until it’s gone. 1756 Lake Woodmoor Dr. Monument. See ad on page < 2 >.
  • Palmer Lake Arts Council presents Romance at the Chautauqua, an original play set in 1901 when the Palmer Lake Chautauqua was the place to be in Colorado. Choose from three performances: Fri., Oct. 6, 7 pm, Sun, Oct. 8, 2 pm, and 6 pm on the stage of the Palmer Lake Town Hall. Ticket information at www.PLartscouncil.org
  • Meet your firefighters event, Sat., Oct. 7, 11-2 pm, free food, goodies for kids, check out the fire engines; Station 4, Monument Fire, 15415 Gleneagle Dr.
  • Miner’s pumpkin patch, every Sat. in Oct. Western Museum of Mining and Industry. See ad on page < 9 >.
  • Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day, Sat., Oct. 7, 9 am; trail riding etiquette handouts, riding clinics, giveaways.. This is a terrific way to get kids outside and develop their mountain biking skills. All ages tots to teens, just need a working bike and helmet to participate. Info: www.communityservices.elpasoco.com/take-kid-mountain-biking/
  • PTSD: What You See, Feel, Do About it, Sun., Oct. 8, 1-3 p.m. Do you know someone with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Does it impact family, friends, you? Speaker: Jim Cunningham, LPC, a 24-year Air Force veteran and professional counselor, will conduct this 2-hour session including a presentation and open discussion on PTSD which is open to our congregation and community. Family of Christ Lutheran Church Youth Center (West Entrance) 675 Baptist Rd. Hosted by FOC Stephen Ministry.
  • Monument Hill Farmers Market, every Sat., 8 am-2 pm until Oct. 14. 66 Jefferson Street Monument. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • MVEA Member appreciation day, Wed., Oct. 11. Lunch, pie, more: 11 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. At the Falcon office 11140 East Woodman Road 80831.
  • Annual pumpkin giveaway! Sat., Oct. 14, 10 am-2 pm. FREE pumpkins, candy, live music, and a delicious food truck. Sponsored by Monument Professional Firefighters local 4319. Monument marketplace clock tower 15986 Jackson Creek Pkwy. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Tri Lakes Cares food drive!
  • Kiwanis Fundraiser adventure wine and dining for the Heart of Monument play park, Sun., Oct. 15. 1-4 pm. see ad on page < 3 >.
  • Lifting Spirits Going Out of Business Sale, Mon.-Thu., Oct. 16-26. See ad on page < 8 >.
  • The Love Shop – Restyle Your Fur Event, Mon.-Tue., Oct. 16-17. See ad on page < 8 >.
  • 100+ Women Who Care Bi-Annual Meeting, Wed. Oct. 18, 5 pm, We are 100+ Women committed to contributing $100 two times a year to local Tri-Lakes charities, which will positively impact our communities by allowing us to give up to $20,000 annually. Together we can make a difference that we can see! Big impact, without a big commitment. Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Drive. For more info: http://www.100womenwhocaretrilakes.com/.
  • D38 Dream Team versus Harlem Wizards, Wed., Oct. 18, 7-9 pm. See ad on page < 9 >.
  • Covered Treasures Bookstore, Sat., Oct. 21, 1-4 pm, author Bethany Turner will sign Brynn and Sebastian Hate Each Other, 105 Second Street, Monument.
  • AARP Drivers Safety Class – AARP Drivers Safety class: Thu., Oct. 26, 12 – 4 pm Black Forest Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall 12455 Black Forest Road in Colorado Springs. $20 for AARP members, $25 for non-members. Cash or check; call 710.597.5683 to register.
  • St. Peter Catholic School Trunk or Treat, Fri., Oct. 27, food trucks 5-7 pm, trunk or treating 6-7 pm. 124 First St. Monument. Info: spcstrunkortreat@gmail.com.
  • Front Range Maker’s Market, Sat.-Sun., Oct. 28 – 29. Lewis Palmer High School, Sat. 9 am-4 pm, Sun. 10 am-3 pm. $5 at the door. See ad on page < 28 >.
  • YMCA 5K race series: Creepy crawl, Sat., Oct. 28; Turkey trot, Thu., Nov., 23; Jingle jog, Sat., Dec. 9. See ad on page < 6 >.
  • 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/ register: https://monumentalimpact.org.
  • A Time to Dance: Dance classes for everyone. See ad on page < 4 >.
  • Affordable Flooring Connection, special offers. See ad on page < 2 >.
  • Cornerstone Cleaners, special offers through Oct. 31. 1030 W. Baptist Road, near King Soopers. See ad on page < 4 >.
  • Eagle Wine & Spirits, special offers through Oct. 31. Baptist Road next to King Soopers. See ad on page < 3 >.
  • Eric Ellison, the “Lightfoot of the Rockies”, Colorado music performances. See ad on page < 4 >.
  • Fall Mountain Farm, Family fun for everyone: pumpkin patch, scavenger hunt, hayrides & more, see ad on page < 17 >.
  • Freedom School of Martial arts, confidence course, special offer, see ad on pages 4 and 15.
  • Gleneagle Candle Co., special offers through Oct. 31. 13796 Gleneagle Drive 80921. See ad on page < 4 >.
  • Monument Cleaners, special offers through Oct. 31., 15932 Jackson Creek Pkwy., in Monument Marketplace. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • Monumental Med Spa, Special offers through Oct. 31. 88 Hwy 105. See ad on page < 7 >.
  • Noel Relief Centers, new patient specials. 950 Baptist Rd #130, Monument. See ad on page < 7 >.
  • Peakview Windows, Siding, Stucco. Special offers through Oct. 31 .See ad on page < 28 >.
  • The Living Room Plants, special offers through Oct. 31, 12229 Voyager Pkwy, Suite 100. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • Tri-Lakes Collision and Auto Service Center, special offers through Oct. 31. 2101 Wolf Court, Monument. www.trilakescollision.com. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • The Vanity Box, special offers, facial revivals, and more. See ad on page < 3 >.
  • Community Technology & Engineering Networking Meeting, Sat., Nov. 18, 9 am-10 am. Join community members to network and connect. Hosted by Monumental Impact. Breakfast and refreshments available. 55 Adams St., Monument. Contact: enable@monumentalimpact.org.
  • The MITEE Gobble Squabble: A Technology & Engineering Exhibition presented by D38’s Bearbotics, Sat., Nov. 18, FREE entertainment of student-built robots, scrimmage matches, ant-weight combat bots (adults can compete too!), project shares and more. Grace Best in Monument. More information: https://monumentalimpact.org/events/mitee-gobblesquabble/
  • International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. Annual community and worldwide event Sat., Nov. 18. Speaker, kids panel, adults panel and discussion, refreshments, more. Woodman Valley Chapel. Details: www.woodmenvalley.org or contact Saucedo 719-488-8280
  • Book signing by Lisa Hatfield, Sat., Nov. 25. Covered Treasures bookstore. See ad on page < 5 >.

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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