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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 24 No. 10 - October 5, 2024

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.

Be “bear smart” and do your part

Secure trash in a garage, shed or other secure structure. Trash bins should only be outside of the secure structure on trash collection days from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. The majority of homes will already meet this requirement with standard practices. For those who cannot store their trash in a secured structure, they will need to obtain a bear-resistant trash can. Certified bear-resistant waste containers can be provided by your trash collection company, or you can purchase bear resistant devices such as locks, ratchet straps, and more including bear resistant trash cans, that also deter other animals like racoons and dogs. Here is a link from Alaska Dept. of Wildlife video to attach a ratchet strap: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmnnwkL7T5Y . Trash can ratchet locks are available for as little as under $20. “Bears are smart and they learn quickly that garbage is an abundant and reliable food source,” said Frank McGee, Area Wildlife Manager for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. “But a diet of garbage is terrible for bears and brings them into close proximity to people, which is dangerous for them and us. “By securing our trash, we deny bears easy meals and discourage them from coming into town. We help keep them wild and alive in the forest, where they belong, not in someone’s garage or the path of a car — behaviors that can get them killed.”

Deer rutting season warning

The rutting season for deer is typically in the last seven to 10 days of October and into early November. When walking in our area or hiking during deer (and elk) rutting season, it’s important to keep your distance from deer and avoid disturbing their natural behavior. Here are some tips for staying safe around deer during rutting season: Keep your distance: Keep at least 50 meters away from deer. Don’t wave food or phones: Avoid waving food or phones in front of deer. Be aware of hazards: Holiday lights and decorations can be dangerous for deer, especially if they’re wrapped around trees or shrubs. Make sure lights are at least eight feet off the ground and securely attached. Slow down: Be aware of deer on the road, especially as they migrate to their winter range.Keep dogs on a leash: Keep dogs leashed and away from deer. Don’t let dogs chase deer: Don’t allow dogs to chase deer or other wildlife. Check your yard: Check your yard before letting your dog outside. Don’t leave food outside: Don’t leave food outside that could attract wildlife. Tell children to stay away: Tell children to stay away from deer and other wildlife.

Black Forest Log School needs your help

Please help preserve the historic school for another 103 years! New exterior damage was discovered. It has exceeded the budget renovation funds. Friends of the Black Forest Log School, a 501c3 corporation, appreciates your donation. Please send a check or bring cash to Black Forest Community Foundation, 6770 Shoup Rd, Black Forest Colorado 90808. www.bflogschool.com

Fox Run Regional Park closures

The Oak Meadows and Pine Meadows restrooms at Fox Run Regional Park are getting remodeled. Both restrooms will be closed through November to undergo renovations that will include the installation of ADA-compliant fixtures, sinks, and wastewater systems. Additionally, the parking lots and sidewalks will be upgraded to ensure full compliance with ADA standards. During construction, both restrooms and the sand volleyball court will be fenced off and closed. Portable restrooms will be available in both parking lots.

Traffic Projects

Highway 105A Construction is expected to continue into spring 2025. The project extends the 4-lane section of Highway 105 just east of Jackson Creek Parkway to Lake Woodmoor Drive, providing greater mobility by accommodating more traffic. The new roundabout, coupled with new queuing lanes constructed by Monument Academy, are designed to keep traffic moving and reduce the traffic backups on Highway 105 that have previously occurred in this area. To stay informed, a recorded message is at 719-423-8100 or you can sign up for project updates by sending an email to: Hwy105Aconstruction@mail.com and JacksonCreekPkwy@gmail.com.

Monument Academy traffic

To ensure a smoother experience for non-school traffic, it is recommended finding an alternate route if possible that avoids this area during the school drop off pick up timesMondays through Thursday 7:00 to 8:30 a.m. And 2:45 to 4:00 p.m.Friday’s 7:00 to 8:30 a.m. And 11:30 a.m to 1:00 p.m.

Donate books to Children’s Hospital

Donate any unused books for the Children’s Hospital in Colorado Springs. Any unused book donation is welcome. Kate Ulmer, a senior at Palmer Ridge High School, is working on a service project to collect new/unused books for Children’s Hospital. Drop off books or cash donations at Covered Treasures (105 2nd Street) or email Katiebugu@icloud.com for pick up!

D38 seeks volunteers

Lewis-Palmer School District 38 seeks volunteers now to help with summer gardening and painting projects at Palmer Lake Elementary and Palmer Ridge High School. Contact Kelly Bryant at kbryant@lewispalmer.org for more information.

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.

Looking for something fun to do?

Space Foundation Discovery Center: www.discover space.org. See ad on page < 12 >.

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. Volunteers are needed for companionship, drivers, thrift store, food pantry and more. 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.

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/.

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.

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 Community Notices

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 Districts 1, 2 & 3 board meetings, usually meets quarterly on the first Mon., at 4 p.m., via teleconference only. For dial in access and updates, visit 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.
  • Palmer Lake Board of Adjustments meeting, Tue., Oct. 1 and Tue. Nov. 5, 5 pm, 28 Valley Crescent St., Palmer Lake. Normally meets first Tue., as needed.
  • El Paso County Planning Commission meeting, Thu., Oct. 3 & 17, 9 am. Regional Development Center, 2880 International Circle, Colo. Springs. Meetings are live-streamed on the El Paso County News & Information Channel at www.elpasoco.com/news-information-channel. Normally meets first & third Thu. (as required). Info: 719-520-6300, planningdevelopment.elpasoco.com/planning-community-development/2024-hearings-schedule/
  • Woodmoor Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Mon., Oct. 8, 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., Oct. 8, 10 am, 16510 Mitchell Ave. Meets second Tue. Info: See tlwastewater.com/index.html Bill Burks, 719-481-4053.
  • Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee (now PCAC, formerly DAAC), Tue., Oct. 8, 6 pm. Lewis-Palmer Elementary school, 1315 Lake Woodmoor Drive, Monument. Come half an hour early for tour if desired. Meets six times a year. Usually meets monthly, second Tue., They will meet in October, November, January, February and April. Contact info: tmckee@lewispalmer.org.
  • Donald Wescott Fire Protection District board meeting, in person or via Zoom. Special meeting Tue., Oct. 8, 2:30 pm. Final meeting Wed., Dec. 4, 4:30 p.m., Station 1, 18650 Highway 105 For up-to-date meeting information, visit www.monumentfire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes, or contact 719-488-0911.
  • Monument Fire District board meeting, in person or via Microsoft Teams. Special meeting Tue., Oct. 8, 6:30 p.m. Regular meeting Wed., Oct. 23, 6:30 p.m., Station 1, 18650 Highway 105, Monument. Usually meets fourth Wed. Visit www.monumentfire.org, for updates and the agenda listing the Microsoft Teams joining codes, or contact 719-488-0911.
  • Palmer Lake Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Oct. 9, 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. 9, 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., Oct. 10 & 24, 6 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, Thu. Oct. 10, 6:30 pm, East Campus gym, 4303 Pinehurst Circle. Usually meets the second Thu. Info: 719-431-8001, www.monumentacademy.net/school-board.
  • Monument Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Oct. 16, 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., Oct. 16, 6 pm. Usually meets third Wed. Public can join the Skype meeting: join.skype.com/PAcujKTn7Nrh. Check the website for a link: academywsd.colorado.gov/notices-and-alerts. Meets third Wed. Info: 719-481-071119academywsd.colorado.gov.
  • Palmer Lake Town Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Oct. 16, 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. Regular meeting is scheduled for Wed., Oct. 16, 7 pm. Usually meets third Wed., Visit http://www.bffire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes or contact 719-494-4300.
  • El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority meeting, Thu., Oct. 17, 9 am, Monument Town Hall Boardroom, 645 Beacon Lite Rd. Normally meets third Thu. Info: 719-488-3603. www.loopwater.org.
  • Donala Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Thu., Oct. 17, 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, in person or via Zoom. Thu., Oct. 17, 5:30 p.m.,16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 302, Monument. Usually meets third Thu. Visit www.triviewmetro.com for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes, or contact 719-488-6868.
  • Lewis-Palmer School District 38 board, Mon., Oct. 21, 6-10 pm, 146 N Jefferson St, Monument. Meets during the school year on 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: www.lewispalmer.org.
  • Monument Town Council meeting, Mon., Oct. 21, 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.
  • Woodmoor Improvement Association Board Meeting, Wed., Oct. 23, 7 pm, Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Usually meets fourth Wed. Info: 719-488-2693, www.woodmoor.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 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, first Wed., 9:30-noon. Donations welcome, 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, Group retreats. Sun. 10:15 am worship service, 3190 Benet Lane, 80921. See ad on page < 3 >.
  • Bingo night, American Legion post 9-11 Tri-Lakes, Palmer Lake EcoSpa, 2nd and 4th Sat., 350 CO Hwy 105, Palmer Lake.
  • 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.
  • 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 and more, stay tuned! Info: friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com.
  • Friends of Monument Preserve (FOMP) Trail repair monthly work days, second Thu. April through October. Meets 6 pm, 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 Sunday Service, every Sun. Service times, 10:45 am live service, streaming service at www.fuelchurch.org at 11 am. 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 >.
  • Genealogical Society meeting, Wed., Oct. 9, 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.
  • 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 Bev Selby, 719-600-1451.
  • 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), Sat., Nov. 9, 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.co.
  • Palmer Lake Historical Society, Thu., Oct. 17, 7 pm; (doors open at 6:30 pm), Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent St. Usually meets third Thu. Contact: Kokesdm@yahoo.com, palmerdividehistory.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 Key Senior Services, Space is limited to 16. participants. RSVP & info: info@silverkey.org
  • Senior Book Club, second Fri., 11 am-noon, Silver Key Senior Services, all are welcome. Coffee & snacks. RSVP & info: info@silverkey.org
  • 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: 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 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, third Fri., 11:30 am. Eisenhower Golf Club, USAFA. 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., 7 p.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., Oct. 3 & 31, 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.
  • Palmer Lake Farmers Market at Calvert’s Mini Market, every Sun. through Oct. 6. 10-2 pm. 4 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake.
  • Covered Treasures Bookstore, Sat., Oct. 12, 1-3, author Margaret Mizushima will sign Gathering Mists. Fri., Oct. 31, 4-6, Safe Trick or Treat. 105 Second St, Monument.
  • Palmer Lake Art group small works art show and sale. Fri. Oct. 4, 5-8 p.m. Show continues though Nov. Bella art and frame gallery. 251 front Street, suite 11, Monument. See ad on page < 10 >.
  • Nance Construction Company Auction, Sat., Oct. 5, 10 am 19870 Beacon Lite Road. Info: 970-380-5305 or www.theholzworthauctioncompany.com.
  • Freedom School of Martial Arts, 6-week strength, stability, and self-defense course for mature adults, starts Mon., Oct. 7. Info: 719-360-9559.
  • Western Museum of Mining and Industry Lecture Series, Tue., Oct. 8, 4 pm: Mel McFarland, Colorado Springs: A Look Back. 225 North Gate Blvd. Members free, nonmembers $5. Reservations required: 719.488-0880.
  • Funky Little Theater Company: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Oct. 11-26, Palmer Lake Town Hall. Details: www.townofpalmerlake.com.
  • 100+ Women Who Care Bi-Annual Meeting, next meeting: Wed. Oct. 16, 5:00 pm at the Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Drive. 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. Details: http://www.100womenwhocaretrilakes.com/
  • WMMI Miners pumpkin patch: Every Sat. in Oct. at Western Museum of Mining and Industry. See ad on page < 12 >.
  • YMCA three races for a great cause, 5K race series. Creepy crawl, Sat. Oct. 26, Turkey trot Thu., Nov. 28, Jingle jog Sat. Dec. 14. See ad on page < 6 >.
  • Mad Science Day – Space Foundation Discovery Center, Sat., Oct. 26. See ad on page < 12 >.
  • Front range Maker’s Market, Sat.-Sun., Oct. 26-27: indoor at Lewis Palmer high School Sat. 9- 4, Sun. 10-3, $5 at the door. See ad on page < 24 >.
  • MVEA: youth leadership trip contest deadline, Thu., Nov. 7. Info: www.mvea.coop/trip contest.
  • Monument homemakers, bring a dish to share, and table service. Program: Reclaiming Hope, an organization that helps survivors of human trafficking; meet at Chamber of Commerce building, Thu. Nov. 7, noon. 166 2nd St. Monument. Info and more about the club: Linda Case, 719-354-6575 for reservations.
  • Christmas with Bing by Eric Elison, Sat., Nov. 23, 2-4 pm. Tri Lakes Center for the Arts and Sat., Dec.14, 7-9 pm, Black Forest Community Club. See ad on page < 4 >.
  • Affordable Flooring Connection, special offers. See ad on page < 2 >.
  • Eagle Wine & Spirits, special offers. See ad on page < 3 >.
  • Mesa Health and Aesthetics, special offers. See ad on page < 2 >.
  • Monumental Med Spa, special offers. See ad on page < 7 >.
  • Monument Cleaners, special offers. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • Mountain View Pella windows, special offers. See ad on page < 24 >.
  • Noel relief centers, special offers. See ad on page < 7 >.
  • PeakView Windows, special offers. See ad on page < 24 >.
  • Plumb Smart plumbing services, special offers. See ad on page < 3 >.
  • Soot busters, chimney sweeps, special offers. See ad on page < 6 >.
  • Stubby’s dog wash and grooming salon, special offers. See ad on page < 2 >.
  • The Living Room Plants, special offers. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • Tri-Lakes Collision and Auto Service Center, special offers. See ad on page < 5 >.
  • Windows Well Covered, custom window well covers, special offers. See ad on page < 7 >.

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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On the Trail (in Memory of Tim Watkins) – Investigation of Tim Watkins’ murder revitalized

By Steve Pate

Seven years after Tim Watkins was killed, the investigation into his murder has been reinvigorated. There’s a new detective on the case who’s been reinterviewing friends of Watkins in the past month.

As OCN has previously reported (see the October 2022 issue at https://ocn.me/v22n10.htm#photos), Watkins was murdered while riding in one of his favorite areas near Mount Herman and Limbaugh Canyon. He was shot and killed, his body moved off -trail and partially buried. He was found Sept. 17, 2017, by volunteers searching for him.

Often a community has information that might be of value to criminal investigators. If you have information about Watkins or his murder, please contact Jennifer Bucholtz, criminal investigator with El Paso County Sheriff ’s Office at 719-520-7227.

About 50 people participated in the dedication of a plaque at the Watkins memorial next to the Palmer Lake Library on Sept. 14. Vickey Meeker, who helped organize the event, said this will become an annual celebration of Watkins’s life, whether or not his killer is found. Meeker is one of those who’s been interviewed by the investigator recently. After presentations by Meeker and her son, Rob Meeker, who rode with Watkins, many of the group biked from the ceremony in Palmer Lake down the Santa Fe Trail to Trails End Tap Room and Eatery in Monument to continue sharing memories and good times with Watkins.

The Palmer Lake Star was lit on the evening of Sept. 14 to honor Watkins’s memory.

Above: Vickey Meeker remembering Tim Watkins. Photo by Steve Pate.
Above: The Palmer Lake Star was lit Sept. 14 in memory of Tim Watkins. Photo by Vickey Meeker.

Steve Pate may be contacted at stevepate@ocn.me.

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