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

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Snapshot of Our Community Sections

Snapshots of Our Community

Bearbotics at World Championships

Above: Monument’s robotics team (in photo) made it to the World Championships in April. Coach Eric VanDenHoek says the Bearbotics team had never made it that far. Their performance “exceeded our season goals.” Bearbotics traveled to Oklahoma to compete against 48 other teams. Their showing earned them a trip to Houston to compete against 601 of the best teams in the world. They finished 82nd out of 3,690 teams. They ranked 63rd out of 2,927 teams in the U.S. and second in Colorado. Student Carter Grizzle says it was “a life-changing event.” Photo courtesy of Eric VanDenHoek.

Taste of Tri-Lakes Cares fundraiser

Above: On May 14, Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) held its annual Taste of Tri-Lakes Cares, a major fundraiser for the 41-year-old nonprofit, at Spruce Mountain Events in Larkspur. This year’s sold-out event was supported by 27 sponsors and attracted 400 paid attendees who sampled cuisine from 14 Tri-Lakes and Colorado Springs area restaurants. Racquel Garcia, founder and chief innovation officer of Hard Beauty, a whole-life drug and alcohol substance recovery organization and new owner of Lake & Lantern in Palmer Lake, delivered a moving keynote presentation regarding TLC, the support it provided to her at a difficult time in her life, and the subsequent collaborations to support the community in need including the 2013 Black Forest Fire. Chef Shane Lyons, a Los Angeles-area chef and son of Tri-Lakes Cares Director of Development & Planning Bill Lyons, performed cooking demonstrations using TLC pantry items and provided information on food waste, stating 40% of grown food is wasted each year with the most preventable food waste occurring in the household. The evening concluded with a paddle raise fundraiser that generated an initial donation of $30,000 followed by increments down to $50 with a goal of raising $125,000. TLC Executive Director Haley Chapin expressed “gratitude for all the support the event received from the participating restaurants, sponsors of the event, and the attendees.” Pictured are, front row, from left, Shelly Ruedin, Kelly Epstein, and TLC Executive Director Chapin. In the middle row are Indy Frazee, Derek Wilson, and Mark Steinberg. In the back row are Benny Nasser, board President Rich Schur, and Carol Foster. Not pictured: Kim Anderson-Grigg. Photo by David Futey.

High School artists honored, May 14

Above: Lewis-Palmer High School honored graduating seniors who intend to continue their fine and performing arts studies in college. The seniors were recognized in a May 14 ceremony similar to the ceremonies held for senior athletes who signed letters of intent to pursue sports in college. Interim Superintendent Amber Whetstine says the event “represents the significance of the arts in the Tri-Lakes community.” Arts Education Advisory Council member Theresa Phillips told the students their talents are “inspiring.” Their teachers were also honored. The students will study a range of subjects including theater, sound engineering, music business, and film production. One student, Jaithan McEchron, will study both violin and chemistry. Front row from left to right are Hope Muldoon, Abigail Sjobeck, Chloe Howver, Isadora Hayes, Bella Kappel, Tabor Hayes, and Penny Stafford. Back row from left to right are Sophia Schulz, Ashley Forsyth, Annabelle Erminger, Isabel Doyle, Luke Bridges, Keegan Owen, Jaithan McEchron, Sky Swenson, and Elliot Swiatek. Photo by Tyler Dumas.

Lake and Lantern Grand Opening

Above: In the space once occupied by Speedtrap Bistro, a new venue held its grand opening on May 17. The Lake and Lantern, owned by Racquel Garcia, opened its doors to serve food and non-alcoholic drinks to a full house. Charlie Searle and his band and ASHTONZ provided music to help launch the live music season. Photo by Steve Pate. See video clip below.

Art Hop Book Signings, May 23

The first Art Hop of the season featured two book signings at Covered Treasures Bookstore in Monument on May 23. Michael Weinfeld and John Howe signed copies of their book Shootouts, Killings, and War Heroes: The History Hidden in Monument’s Cemetery. They were invited back after a very successful signing last November. Also at the store for Art Hop was Karen Koepcke Morgan, who signed two of her children’s books, Can You Hide Like a Chameleon? and Are You Stronger Than an Ant? Photos by Charlie Searle. In upper photo, seated from left, are Howe and Weinfeld. From left in the back are bookstore owner Tommie Plank, store manager Paula Primavera and employee Claire Deeds. In the lower photo, Karen Koepcke Morgan with her children’s books.

Palmer Lake sculpture installation

Above: The Palmer Lake Arts Council (PLAC) facilitated its first-ever installations of two sculptures for the art year 2025-26 on May 23, with two artists new to the program: Diego Harris and Bill Bunting. Attending Palmer Lake Arts Council members are, from left, Lynn Roth, Amy Hudson, and Tim Brannaman (starring as event welder) shared the happy event with sculptor Harris and his steel sculpture, Serpent Obelisk. Harris makes steel sculptures in Weathering steel, a process that forms its own patina when exposed to the elements. This eliminates the need for painting and offers enhanced corrosion resistance. Harris’ sculpture is available for purchase, with portions of the funds supporting the PLAC. Bunting, cowboy poet and sculptor, shared his sculpture Love for the Land with his poetry. Bunting created the steel sculpture by cutting small pieces of steel and welding them together into the plow shape. He included his poems about the sculpture, both honoring the stewards of the lands of the West. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Memorial Day in Monument

The skies were gloomy, befitting the somber occasion, as a few hundred people attended the Memorial Day ceremony in Monument Cemetery on May 26. The rain held off as local and state officials spoke and the names of veterans buried in the 5 acres of land were read aloud, each name followed by the ringing of a bell. The ceremony ended with the playing of taps by Michael Carlson on his bugle. This is Carlson’s last year performing at the ceremony. He’ll be attending college in South Dakota next Memorial Day. Above: Members of VFW Post 7829, American Legion/Tri-Lakes Post 9-11, Boy Scout Troop 17, and others salute the flags. Photo by Michael Weinfeld. See video clips below.

Pikes Peak Soap Box Derby

Above: On June 1, a portion of Higby Road in Monument was converted into a downhill racecourse for the 20th annual Pikes Peak Soap Box Derby. This is the first time the derby has been in Monument; previous years it was held on Costilla Street in Colorado Springs. Race Director Jim Taylor said, “We have a total of 43 racers from across the state, from Pueblo, Denver, Centennial, Woodland Park, Longmont, Brighton, and Colorado Springs.” Taylor was very appreciative of the supportive response from sponsors, the Town of Monument, and the Triview Metropolitan District (TMD). Taylor said TMD General Manager “James McGrady was instrumental in securing permits, coordinating the Higby Road closure for 3 1/2 days and assisting with the course setup.” The course was 650 feet in length with racers clocked at speeds up to 22 mph. The winning racer in the dual heats sometimes came down to thousandths of a second. The Stock division (ages 7-13) winner was Blake Elston and the Super Stock division (ages 9-18) winner was Ethan Elston after a double elimination bracket was conducted in each division. The brothers will head to Akron, Ohio in July to compete in the Soap Box Derby World Championship. Photo by David Futey. See video clips below.

PLAG annual scholarship awards

Above: On May 23, Bella Art and Frame Gallery hosted the Palmer Lake Art Group’s (PLAG) annual celebration of young artists with scholarship awards. From left are Clyde Smith of the Scholarship Committee, event judges Mark Dixon and Bonnie Sands, scholarship recipient Isadora Hayes, and events coordinator Rita Bates. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Above: From left, Micaela Cimino, co-owner of Bella Art and Frame Gallery, and scholarship winner Isadora Hayes stand near Hayes’s winning artworks at the PLAG scholarship exhibition celebration on May 23. Photo by Janet Sellers. Bonus photo not included in the printed copy of the OCN.

Monument Farmers Market

Above: The first Monument Hill Farmers Market of the season opened May 24 under threatening skies. Lucky for the vendors and the large crowd that turned out, it didn’t rain, though it got very windy at times. The market is open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend to early October. It’s held in front of Big Red at 66 Jefferson St. in Monument. Mike and Sherree Hrdlichka first opened the market in 2007. In the photo, from left are Filter Press Publisher Julie VanLaanen, and authors John Howe and Michael Weinfeld at their booth promoting their book Shootouts, Killings and War Heroes: The History Hidden in Monument’s Cemetery. Photo by Tia M. Mayer. See ad on page 5.

New sidewalk in Monument

Above: Walking into downtown Monument from the west side is safer now. There’s finally a sidewalk from the corner of Mitchell Avenue and Second Street across the train tracks to the Limbach Park parking lot. No more having to choose between navigating a ditch or walking on the road. Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek says the project had been in the works for “many, many, many years,” but it finally happened because of the “persistence” of Civil Engineering Inspector Tom Martinez of the Monument Public Works Department. Martinez was able to “work something out” with the BNSF Railway so that the town didn’t have to pay $50,000 for permits and other things. The $60,000 cost of the project was covered by leftover federal grant money for drainage improvement. Drainage pipes were installed beneath the sidewalk. VanDenHoek hopes the sidewalk will eventually begin at the crosswalk on Mitchell Avenue. Photo by Michael Weinfeld. See the video clip below.

USAFA Graduation, May 29

Above: They missed out on the traditional flyover and air show, but the more than 900 Air Force and Space Force cadets went home with something more important—their diplomas. The graduation ceremony on May 29 at Falcon Stadium at the US Air Force Academy (USAFA) ended with the traditional hat toss (in photo), but not a performance by the Thunderbirds who were grounded by fog and low-lying clouds. Spectators did get to see the acrobatic flight team practice the day before. Dr. Troy E. Meink, the 27th secretary of the Air Force, was the main speaker at the graduation. Photo by Michael Weinfeld. See video clips below.

Palmer Lake Farmers Market

Above: On Sundays, the Palmer Lake Farmers Market welcomes the public with food, goodies, gifts, and music in its fun, festive atmosphere. Here, on June 1, a stand offered lemonade made fresh on site, sweetened to taste. The market is open Sundays 10-2 all summer at the lake near the bandstand. The market is also accepting new vendors. Details at Calvertsminimarket.com. Photo courtesy Stephanie Calvert. Caption by Janet Sellers. See ad on page 2.

Other Snapshots of our Community articles

Snapshots of Our Community

D38 CIC Wallbreaking, Mar. 31

Above: On March 31, School District 38 hosted a Wall-Breaking Ceremony to begin renovations on its Career & Innovation Center (CIC) at 1200 Synthes Ave., set to open for the 2025–26 school year. The center will provide secondary students with work-based learning opportunities, connecting high school education to in-demand careers. Students can earn certifications and prepare for college and the workforce. Over 100 attendees, including students, staff, school board members, and partners, celebrated the milestone. Guests, equipped with safety gear, participated in wall demolition. Phase one programs will feature Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering, and Skilled Trades. Phase two will add hands-on learning in Healthcare and Information Technology. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Hop Out Hunger, Apr. 5

Above: On April 5, Bethesda Gardens Senior Living Center held its third annual Hop Out Hunger pancake fundraiser benefiting Tri-Lakes Cares. Balloons and bunnies adorned the event, which featured a $10 breakfast of pancakes, bacon, sausage, fruit, coffee, and orange juice. Proceeds support Tri-Lakes Cares in providing food, household items, and financial aid to those in need. Bethesda Director Jackie Lyons and staff brought their children, dressed in Easter attire, to join the festivities. Pictured from left are Ember, Eden, and Luliana. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

PLAG’s April Color Splash Show

Above: The Palmer Lake Art Group held its annual Color Splash art show in April at Library 21c branch of Pikes Peak Library District. Right (L to R): Anne Dye, first place winner, with presenter Rita Bates.

Above: Anne Dye’s winning artwork, Beside Still Waters. Photos courtesy Palmer Lake Art Group.

Wildlife overpass under construction

Above: Work has begun on a huge wildlife overpass that will cross I-25 near the Greenland Interchange between Larkspur and Monument. The overpass will be 204 feet wide and will span six lanes of the highway, making it one of the largest wildlife overpasses in the country. It’ll allow elk, mule deer, and pronghorn to have access to 39,000 acres of habitat on both sides of the highway. Most of the $15 million cost will be covered by a federal grant. The overpass is predicted to reduce the number of crashes caused by wildlife by 90%. Motorists can expect delays throughout the construction project, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Photo courtesy of CDOT.

Recall petition signing, Apr. 5

Above: On April 5, Palmer Lake residents began petitioning to recall Trustees Shana Ball, Kevin Dreher, and Dennis Stern. Braving wintry weather, Herb Preslier bundled up to staff a booth outside Calvert’s Mini-Market, a small business in Palmer Lake that has voiced concerns over Buc-ee’s potential impact. The recall committee cites key issues of transparency, responsibility, and ethical leadership. Residents also discussed initiating a separate petition to require voter approval for future annexations. Petition signings continued at various community locations throughout the 60-day petition period. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Monument Lake Regrading, Apr. 8

Above: It’s just as much a sign of spring as boaters returning to Monument Lake. On April 8, the town’s Public Works Department filled the deep potholes that had formed over the winter at the lake’s parking area and beach. Dump trucks emptied dirt which was smoothed out by road graders. Then, rollers came along to pack down the dirt. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Friends of Black Forest, Apr. 12

Above: People brought chainsaws, chippers, and gloves to help tackle beetle-infested trees, chipping slash to help slow the infestation, on a Black Forest property that had already been devastated in the 2013 fire. Friends of Black Forest is a big family even though they don’t all know each other yet. This huge project was organized by Terry Stokka, who said, “this is the kind of spirit that I want to foster in Black Forest, neighbors helping neighbors.” Participants said it was fun to band together and work as a team. If you live in the area and want to be added to Friends of Black Forest email list, write to terry@friendsofblackforest.org. Photo by Lisa Hatfield.

Soap Box Derby clinic, Apr. 5

Above: On April 5, the Pikes Peak Soap Box Derby (PPSBD) held its first of two clinics in April at Family of Christ Lutheran Church. The clinics provided derby racers an opportunity to build their cars for the upcoming derby. Pictured from left are PPSBD steering committee member Brandie Scott with Brent DeMatteo providing guidance to Oliver DeMatteo on installation of an axle on his car. This year the derby race will be held on Higby Road in Monument after over 20 years in downtown Colorado Springs. Practice day and final car inspection are scheduled for May 31, with the race occurring on June 1. Race Director Jim Taylor said, “We are expecting 37-40 racers this year with participants coming from Denver to Fountain and locations in between.” The race is open to anyone between the ages of 7 and 20. The racecourse is 650 feet long on Higby between Cloverleaf and Bowstring Roads. Higby will be closed for four days to accommodate the racecourse setup and the race. Taylor said, “The focus of the derby is to provide families an opportunity to build the car together and the enjoyment of having racers compete locally and nationally.” Information on PPSBD and the race is at www.ppsbd.org. Photo by David Futey.

TLWC Checkered Table Talk, Apr. 8

Above: The Tri-Lakes Women’s Club’s (TLWC) new Checkered Table Talk series is off to a strong start. TLWC says the first talk on April 8 was sold out. Those attending heard Mike Thiessen, assistant coach at the Air Force Academy, speak about “learning, love, and leadership.” Guests brought picnic baskets and ate lunch on tables covered in checkered tablecloths. The next talk will be held May 8 featuring the President and CEO of the Colorado Springs Philharmonic Nathan Newbrough. Photo by Kelly Trop.

LPHS staged The Lightning Thief

Above: Lewis-Palmer High School (LPHS) Theater staged The Lightning Thief on April 10-12, portraying Rick Riordan’s first book in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series on stage. The musical follows Jackson, a modern teen who discovers he’s the son of a Greek god and must retrieve Zeus’ stolen lightning bolt to restore peace to Mount Olympus. Students played teenage demi-gods and Greek gods, including a lighthearted portrayal of Poseidon in a Hawaiian shirt. The production explored themes of abandonment, friendship, and inner strength. In the photo, The Lightning Thief cast and crew take a bow. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

TLC greenhouse construction

Above right: Mr. Vrieze’s Carpentry 1 and 2 classes at Lewis-Palmer High School built a greenhouse for the Tri-Lakes Cares produce garden and set it up in April. The greenhouse was received with sincere thanks to Mr. Vrieze (pictured above left) and the student volunteers whose contributions made this project possible; supplies were donated by Harbor Freight’s Tools for Schools program. The garden still needs seeds and perennials: rhubarb plants, berry plants, tomato and other food plants, and summer volunteers to help weekly for planting, weeding, and harvesting. Contact Molly at MollyS@trilakescares.org or Janet at JanetSellers@ocn.me. Photo by Janet Sellers.

D38 Art Awards, Apr. 15

Above: On April 15, School District 38 held its Arts Awards ceremony at the district administration building, recognizing top student artists from all district schools, Monument Academy, and the Home School Enrichment Academy. First-, second-, and third-place winners earned certificates, ribbons, and cash prizes. Student artwork, displayed at Lolley’s Tasting Room for two weeks prior, highlighted the talent celebrated at the event. Sponsors included Integrity Bank & Trust, D38 Foundation, Air Academy Credit Union, Lolley’s Ice Cream, Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts, and Palmer Lakes Arts Council. Pictured from left are Communications Director Amy Matisek and Amanda Staman, Palmer Lake Elementary art teacher and event organizer. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

100+ Women Who Care, Apr. 16

Above: On April 16, 100+ Women Who Care Tri-Lakes gathered at The Woodmoor Barn to choose a local nonprofit to receive the group’s donations. Members of the group, who each contribute $100 each twice a year, heard three-minute presentations from nominees Tri-Lakes Cares, the D38 Foundation, and Kiwanis for the Heart of Monument Playpark. After voting, Tri-Lakes Cares was selected as the recipient. Tri-Lakes Cares supports families and individuals in northern El Paso County, striving to make a positive impact. Learn more at tri-lakescares.org. Girls on the Ridge, the October 2024 recipient, provided refreshments at the April meeting and shared how their funds supported Palmer Ridge High School women’s sports, providing tools for performance, safety, and confidence. Visit girlsontheridge.org for details. The next meeting is set for Wednesday, Oct. 15. For more information, visit 100womenwhocaretrilakes.com. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

PRHS staged Radium Girls

Above: The Bear Necessity Theatre Company presented Radium Girls by D. W. Gregory in the Palmer Ridge High School auditorium April 17-19. The play is based on the lives of young women who worked at the U.S. Radium Corp. in the 1920s in New Jersey who became ill and died after being exposed to radioactivity while painting radium onto watch faces, etc., that made them glow in the dark. The girls were instructed to use their lips to put a fine point on their radioactive brush points so they could paint precisely. This procedure led to a condition called “radium jaw,” or radium necrosis, and many became sick and died. The young women and their friends and relatives fought to make workplaces safer in the U.S. and Europe. Pictured from left are Bella Pemberton as Kathryn Schaub, Jocelyn Langlois as Grace Fryer, Krew Sloan as Tom Kreider, and Lucy Cavin as reporter Nancy Jane Harlan. Caption by Jackie Burhans. Photo by Steve Pate.

Friends of Fox Run Park, Apr. 22

Above: Members of the Board of Friends of Fox Run Park set up an informational table for Earth Day on April 22 in Fox Run Park at the Roller Coaster Road Trailhead. They greeted hikers and runners and wished them a “Happy Earth Day.” Many of the park-goers stopped and visited with them, including a horse named Hey Gal. One of the core initiatives of the Friends group is to promote working with El Paso County on volunteer projects in the park such as trail building, painting, fence repair, and general landscape cleanup. If you would like to join the Friends of Fox Run Park on one of their projects, please email FriendsofFoxRunPark@gmail.com. Photo by Marlene Brown.

D38 students display their art

Above: Student artists of all ages displayed their work at Lolley’s Tasting Room in Monument. Elementary school students were featured from April 1-6 while middle and high school student artwork was on display April 8-13. Palmer Ridge student Everleigh Larsen won Best in Show in the high school category for her white charcoal and color pencil piece of a skull surrounded by flowers. Middle school Best in Show went to Lewis-Palmer eighth-grader Danae Archuleta’s sushi tic-tac-toe board made of clay. Kindergartner Hans Luebbert from Prairie Winds Elementary earned Best in Show in his age group for his mixed media creation Hedgehog Hearts. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

D38 multi-lingual night, Apr. 17

Above: School District 38 hosted a multilingual family night on April 17 at Lewis-Palmer High School, featuring resource tables, a family survey with a raffle, entertainment, and food, including potluck dishes and the Antojitos Juruilta food truck. Multilingual Learning Specialist Dr. Katie Scott organized the event to foster connection and celebrate culture, showcasing Ballet Folklorico, student and teacher spotlights, games, and refreshments. Family Liaison and Spanish interpreter Mency Dillenbeck provided simultaneous translation. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Young Marines honor WWII vets

Above: Jackson Waters of Monument was among 12 Young Marines from across the country who traveled to Guam and Iwo Jima to honor the 80th anniversary of the WWII Battle of Iwo Jima. They raised a flag on Mount Suribachi, the site of the famous flag-raising by Marines during the battle of Iwo Jima. Sergeant-Major Waters is a member of the Mountain View Young Marines in Centennial. The Young Marines is a national youth program for boys and girls, ages eight through high school, focused on leadership, citizenship through community service, self-discipline, and living a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. Waters is standing fourth from right in the photo. Photo courtesy of the Young Marines.

Slash-mulch program, Apr. 19

Above: The Black Forest Slash and Mulch Committee (SAMCOM), a Colorado nonprofit doing business as the Black Forest Slash and Mulch Program, held its annual meeting at the Black Forest Community Center on April 19. Working in conjunction with Colorado State Forest Service, the Black Forest Fire and Rescue Department, and El Paso County, the program promotes wildfire mitigation through reducing hazardous fuels on private property. The 2025 program begins May 3. Please see bfslash.org for a schedule of drop-off and pick-up of slash and mulch. Pictured are Carolyn Brown and Jeff DeWitt, directors of the program. Photo by Marlene Brown.

Buc-ee’s Open House, Apr. 24

Above: From left, Daniel Higgins and Gerald Hatfield staff one of the information tables at the Buc-ee’s Open House held by Tri-Lakes Preservation at the Palmer Lake Elementary School Cafeteria on April 24. Brochures were available discussing water, environmental, local impact, and legal issues with the proposed annexation and construction of a Buc-ee’s travel center. Photo by Mike Cimino.

Arbor Day, Apr. 25

Above: The Town of Monument celebrated Arbor Day, April 25, by planting a tree in front of the Monument Sanitation District office on Second Street. The 12-foot chokecherry replaced a locust tree that died. The event was instructional as well as functional. Parks Superintendent James Schubauer (in blue shirt) gave tips on how to plant a tree. The key, he said, was not to bury the root ball too deep. The roots should be planted 6 to 8 inches below the surface, he said. Schubauer warned that if you plant them too deep, the roots won’t get any oxygen, and the tree will die. After the planting, Parks and Trails Planner and Program Manager Cassie Olgren gave out free ground-covering plants to the crowd. The first Arbor Day was observed on April 10, 1872, with the planting of an estimated 1 million trees in the mostly treeless grasslands of Nebraska. By 1885, Arbor Day became a legal holiday, celebrated on April 22. In 1970, President Richard Nixon changed the official date to the last Friday in April. Caption by Michael Weinfeld and Janet Sellers. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Chamber winners announced

Above: John Howe and Michael Weinfeld of Our Community News were named Volunteers of the Year at the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce annual awards gala April 25. In addition to volunteering at the newspaper, Howe and Weinfeld spent years updating the town’s cemetery files resulting in a book about the cemetery. Interim Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek won Business Person of the Year. VanDenHoek is expected to be named town manager this month. Gabrielle Traenkner of Sherwin-Williams was named Employee of the Year, Leann Hemenway of Herring Bank won Ambassador of the Year, and the Monument Warriors won Non-Profit of the Year. The Warriors are a Special Olympics team based in Colorado Springs. The gala was held at the Polaris Hotel at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. From left, Weinfeld, VanDenHoek, and Howe. Photo by Allen Alchian.

WMMI Super Saturday, Apr. 26

Above: On April 26, the Western Museum of Mining & Industry (WMMI) held its annual Super Saturday event. This year’s event featured a variety of activities where visitors could pursue artistic expression. Museum Marketing Coordinator Hunter Hall, front, and Museum Rentals Coordinator Kelsey Bailes are shown as they try acrylic painting with vendor Brush Crazy. Besides Brush Crazy, visitors found art activities through other vendors including Pebble Pups, Yellow Couch Creative, and the Embroiderers Guild. The museum staff also demonstrated a variety of the museum’s steam engines, and visitors could try their hand at gold panning. Information on upcoming museum events like Picnic N Planes and lectures is at wmmi.org. Photo by David Futey.

Other Snapshots of Our Community articles

Snapshots of Our Community

Lewis-Palmer D38 Chess Tournament, Mar. 8

Bunco Night Fundraiser, Feb. 22

Above: Area residents rolled the dice Feb. 22 to raise more than $4,500 for a future meditation garden at Trinity Community Park in Monument. More than 60 people took part in Bunco night hosted by the park and Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club at Trinity Lutheran Church. The proceeds will go toward the garden that will include benches, sculptures, wind spinners, birdhouses, a labyrinth, and Rotary Peace Poles that display the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth.” In photo, Debby Jeroslow came dressed for the occasion. Photo by Laurie Beasley.

Lake and Lantern opened, Feb. 26

Above: Lake and Lantern Café opened on Feb. 26 in Palmer Lake at the former Speedtrap restaurant. It serves breakfast and lunch daily and aims to create an alcohol-free space for connection. Their offerings include zero-proof beer and mocktails. CEO Raquel Garcia leads the café with her son Jordan as chef, her husband Chris handling operations, and her son Jayden as cook, server, and mocktologist. Other family members contribute as needed. Lake and Lantern, with the motto “life, lit differently,” will host in-person recovery meetings by HardBeauty starting April 2 at 7:30 pm, offering hot coffee but no food. CEO Raquel Garcia, founder of HardBeauty and the HardBeauty Foundation, supports these efforts through the café. For more details, visit www.lakeandlantern.com or call 719-300-8013. To learn more about HardBeauty and the HardBeauty Foundation, check out www.hardbeauty.life and www.hardbeautyfoundation.org. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Roundabout alternatives, Mar. 5

Above: El Paso County hosted a community presentation on March 5 to discuss its Intersection Study for Woodmoor Drive and Lake Woodmoor. County Project Manager Alissa Werre introduced project managers John Moscovich and Michael Romero from Benesch. While presenters received positive feedback on a temporary roundabout, concerns about its proximity to Highway 105 led to the evaluation of three potential full-size roundabout locations (shown in inset): Woodmoor Drive and Lake Woodmoor, Woodmoor Drive and the Park & Ride entrance, and Woodmoor Drive and Monument Hill Road. Once a decision is finalized, the design phase is expected to take 12-18 months, with construction slated for late 2026 or early 2027. Based on traffic studies and the achievable level of service (LOS), the county favored the roundabout option at Woodmoor Drive and the Park & Ride. Attendees raised questions and concerns, which were documented, and additional input was welcomed until March 21. From left on stage are Romero, Werre, and Moscovich. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Monument Lake restrooms coming

Above: The thousands of people who visit Monument Lake each year soon won’t have to use a porta potty when nature calls. Ground was broken in February on what will be permanent restroom facilities. The inset photo example of what the building might look like was provided by Parks and Trails Planner and Program Manager Cassie Olgren. It has two unisex bathrooms with plumbing. She says she hopes the facility will be ready for use by the end of June. About 75% of the cost will be picked up by a $117,000 grant from Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Photo by Tia M. Mayer.

Taste of Life expands shop, Mar. 1

Above: On March 1, the Taste of Life store, 18965 Base Camp Road, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of its expanded retail shop. The shop has moved to the front of the building and features homemade meals for those too busy to cook, gluten-free options, and keto options. The store was packed for the event, which was covered by Fox 21 news. For more information, see www.tasteoflifestores.com. Inset: Donna Poelstra, owner of Taste of Life, greeted the crowd at the grand reopening. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Rock House ready for Easter

Above: On an early spring day, March 23, families and friends enjoyed lunch and/or ice cream at the Rock House ice cream shop, 24 Highway 105, Palmer Lake. Shown from left are Jeff Goldman, owner of the Rock House, Lynda Pate, Claire McFadden, Logan Downey, and Kristen McFadden (Claire’s mother). The Rock House also features house-made fudge, chocolate, and popcorn as well as lunch and dinner items. The Easter bunny atop the dinosaur appeared to be enjoying the ride. Photo by Steve Pate.

PLAG portrait workshop

Above: Members of the Palmer Lake Art Group (PLAG) enjoyed a club portrait workshop session in March. PLAG members, from left, Wilhelmina Steenbergen (modeling), Anne Dye, and Mark Dixon join the Plein Air Artist of Colorado winter indoor drawing program at Library 21c in the Create Space. PLAG members are invited to join this twice-a-month event where artists paint or draw in short gesture or long pose sessions. For information, visit PalmerLakeArtGroup.org. Photo courtesy of Palmer Lake Art Group.

Stars of Tomorrow winners, Mar. 16

Above: Two pianists, three Broadway-style singers, and a ballet dancer who played the drums won the top prizes at the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show held at Palmer Ridge High School in Monument on March 16. Pianist Annabelle Carter, a homeschooled high school junior, earned the top prize of $2,000. In second place among high schoolers was singer Ruby Taylor, a Palmer Ridge junior, who took home $1,000. The third-place prize, worth $500, went to another singer, Winn Sienkowski, a Palmer Ridge High School junior. Among middle-schoolers, Aubrey Davis, a sixth-grader at Palmer Lake Elementary School, came in first for her performance that combined ballet and playing the drums. She earned $750 while singer Lila Brown, an eighth-grader at Lewis-Palmer Middle School, was second, earning $500. Finally, the elementary school winner was pianist Thomas Carter, who took home $500. Pictured from left to right: Thomas Carter, Ruby Taylor, Winn Sienkowski, Annabelle Carter, Aubrey Davis, and Lila Brown. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Whitecaps on Palmer Lake, Mar. 17

Above: On Monday, March 17, the Tri-Lakes area including the lake at Palmer Lake was affected by 55-plus mph wind gusts. The gusts created very choppy waters in a northerly direction with whitecaps. Near-blizzard conditions affected the area the following day and into Wednesday morning. Photo by David Futey.

Monument cemetery talk, Mar. 21

Above: The team of Michael Weinfeld and John Howe has been nominated for the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce honor of Volunteer of the Year. They’ll compete against other nominees and will learn who won at the chamber’s annual awards gala on April 25. Weinfeld and Howe gave two presentations about their book Shootouts, Killings, and War Heroes: The History Hidden in Monument’s Cemetery. They spoke at the Tri-Lakes Senior Center on March 21 (in photo) and the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club on March 22. Photo by Tia M. Mayer.

WMMI Geology Day, Mar. 22

Above: During the Western Museum of Mining & Industry’s (WMMI) annual Geology Day on March 22, WMMI Curator Jaime Gorrell assists museum visitor James Bolding with one of the activities. Bolding built a mineshaft structure made of toothpicks and marshmallows. To test the structure’s strength, it is placed in sand with wax paper over it then sand over top. A camera directed underneath the wax paper and attached to the adjacent laptop shows how the structure holds up under the weight of the sand. Besides this activity, visitors had the opportunity to interact with a variety of organizations, including the Colorado Springs Mineralogical Society, the Phoenix Gold Mine, SSR Mining from Cripple Creek & Victor, Lafayette History Museum, and Maptek staff demonstrating a Lindar scanner. WMMI Executive Director Grant Dewey said he “greatly appreciates the exhibitors enhancing the museum’s visitors’ educational experience and understanding of geology.” Photo by David Futey.

Wildfire risk reduction, Mar. 17

Above: Wildfire hazard management, forest health, and safer ingress/egress routes were described by Jonathan Bradley, Monument Fire’s division chief of Community Risk Reduction, on March 17. He spoke to residents of Pleasant View Estates, Sun Hills Estates, and the nearby Raton neighborhood. He urged all homeowners in the area to make each house and the zone around it less flammable, so it could not be ignited by flying sparks and burning embers. Residents should cut back trees and fuel from the right-of-way in front of each property so that in a wildfire, flames have less chance of blocking the escape route for residents and access for firefighters. For more “home hardening,” “fuels reduction,” and emergency planning ideas, search online for Colorado State Forest Service Home Ignition Zone brochure or see Ready, Set, Go! evacuation ideas at www.wildlandfirersg.org/. Photo by Lisa Hatfield.

WWII Vet Jim Clemmons’ 100th

Above: About 100 people, one for every year of Jim Clemans’ life, attended
his centennial birthday party at Jackson Creek Senior Living in Monument on
March 22. Clemans is a Navy veteran who served during WWII aboard the
escort carrier Wyndham Bay. He saw action at Iwo Jima and the Battle of
Okinawa. Clemans was also active in the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club, serving
as grand marshal in the Fourth of July parade in 2023. Asked by an OCN
reporter what tips he could give for reaching 100 years of age, Clemans said,
“Just relax and don’t worry about it.” Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

TLWC donates baby products

Above: Volunteers with the Tri-Lakes Women Club (TLWC) donated 507 pounds of diapers and wipes to Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) on March 24. The donation was needed because TLC can give women only seven diapers a week and as any parent will tell you, that’s not nearly enough to keep a baby dry. In addition to the baby products, TLWC raised nearly $500 to donate to TLC. TLC still needs other donations. To find out what else they could use, visit https://tri-lakescares.org/current-pantry-needs/. In the photo are TLWC volunteers Maureen Morgan (in front) and Kayleen Jackson. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

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Lake of the Rockies fire mitigation

Above and Below: As detailed in the photo caption on the front page, the Lake of the Rockies community fire mitigation project was necessary because three acres of dense stands of scrub oak and ponderosa pines behind the community and south of the Monument Lake dam were considered a “high hazard area.” A powerful machine called a “masticator” (pictured below) was used to chew up small trees, oak brush, and debris on the floor of the forest to open up space beneath the pines. Now that the project has been completed, it will be less likely a fire could spread to houses (visible in the background in the photo). The project cost nearly $11,000 and was paid for with a grant from the Pikes Peak Regional Council of Governments. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

PRHS football signing, Feb. 5

Above: In a formal ceremony held in the Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS) auditorium on Feb. 5, three graduating student athletes signed commitments to attend college and continue their football experiences. Coach Earl Carlton expressed his appreciation for the contributions made by these young men and wished them well in their coming adventures. Seated during the signings are, from left, Aiden Cohen to play football at Colorado Mesa University, David Brodeur, Ave Maria University, and Isaac Burks, Saint Ambrose University. Photo by Steve Pate.

Arndt wins PLAG show blue ribbon

Above: Donna Arndt was the blue ribbon winner of the Palmer Lake Art Group’s annual winter show with her Garden of the Gods, After the Storm, 2025, acrylic palette knife painting, 16” x 16”, created in 2025. This year the exhibition was held at the Garden of the Gods visitor center all month in February. Arndt, a local artist of several mediums, is also the sculptor for the statue, Come, Dizzy! in Palmer Lake at the Town Hall. Dizzy was the construction helper for the Palmer Lake star, fetching tools up and down the mountain. Dizzy fetched such things as hammers, nails, wires, light bulbs and more for the workers upon the mountain when the star was being built nearly a hundred years ago. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Bella Art has new owners

Above: On Feb. 16, the new owners of Bella Art and Frame gallery invited their gallery artists and clients for a meet-and-greet gathering. From left are Joseph Jesse, gallery artist Bonnie Sands, and Micaela Cimino. Jesse and Cimino are the new owners who said they will continue to offer art, art events and picture framing at Bella Art and Frame Gallery. New for the venue will be art and artist events, planned for Saturdays starting in March, including open studio hours with art instruction available. The various events will be open to the community. Cimino was a Palmer Lake Art Group high school scholarship award winner and went on to study at Pratt Institute in New York. After working in New York as an illustrator for many years, she has returned home to the Monument area with her family to continue her support of the arts locally. Photo by Janet Sellers

Stone wins Stars and Stripes Award

Above: On Feb. 16, Isabelle Stone of Monument was presented with the Stars and Stripes Award, the highest honor given by American Heritage Girls. Friends, family, and supporters attended the ceremony at the Ascent Church in Monument. Isabelle earned the award by partnering with the nonprofit group Sarah’s Home to remodel a storage room for books used in the group’s curriculum. The room had been in disarray (left photo). Sarah’s Home provides a sanctuary for teenage girls who are survivors of sex trafficking. Over the last 13 years, Isabelle has earned 97 badges and performed 1,295 hours of community service with American Heritage Girls, a group that teaches girls 5-18 years old perseverance, self-reliance, and leadership. She’s been a member of three different troops across the country since she was 5. She currently attends weekly meetings of Troop CO2017 at the Ascent Church. Caption by Lilyan Gardner. Photos by Rebecca Stone.

Stars of Tomorrow auditions, Feb. 22

There was music, comedy, poetry, magic—even a ballet dancer who played the drums. More than three dozen area students tried out for the Monument Hill Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow talent show on Feb. 22. The students are competing for cash prizes. The elementary school winner will take home $500, and the middle school winner will earn $750. There will be three high school winners. The top prize will be $2,000, second prize will be worth $1,000, and third prize $500. Students who pass their auditions will compete in the talent show on March 16. Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

Above: Claire Baldwin, a 6-year-old first-grader from LPES sang a song.
Above: Julianna Ward, a 16-year-old PRHS student, sang a Broadway tune.
Above: Carmen Claudio, a 13-year-old LPMS student, dressed like Little Red Riding Hood and came equipped with trees and a basket to sing a song from Into the Woods.
Above: Ruby Taylor, a PRHS student, sang a song.

Above: Miriam Beasley, a LPMS student, sang a song while doing sign language.
Above: Winn Sienkowski, a 17-year-old PRHS student, sang a song.
Above and Below: Aubrey Davis, an 11-year-old sixth-grader at LPMS,
played the drums after dancing a ballet.

Above: Lila Knapp (left), a 13-year-old Lewis-Palmer student, played clarinet and Brooke Tuck, a 14-year-old Lewis Palmer Student, played French horn.
Above: Penelope Hall, a 12-year-old seventh-grader at Lewis-Palmer Middle School, did a comedy routine.
Above: Lewis-Palmer student Thomas Carter played the piano.

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Above: Fireworks ended the Fourth Annual Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic. More than a thousand people saw Pine Creek High School beat the Lewis-Palmer Rangers for the second straight year in an overtime shootout. The score was 3-2. The Eagles took home the Star trophy, shaped like the Palmer Lake Star that was lit for the tournament. The event raises money for the Lewis-Palmer hockey team. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

TLWC helps Christmas Giveaway

Above: On Dec. 14, 40 members of the Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) gathered at the Colorado Springs Event Center located at Academy Blvd and Palmer Park and rotated throughout the afternoon helping our community neighbors’ select gifts as part of the Bob Telmosse Christmas Giveaway. There were thousands of people, many of whom spent a long time lining up during the overnight hours to enter when the doors opened at 9 am. The event started in 1983 as a result of a prank. Someone ran an ad in the Gazette Telegraph saying Bob Telmosse’s business was giving away free food. When people come to his business, Bob explained the mistake and had them come back the next day and provided them with food from his own resources. It has continued every year and now is sponsored by the the Bob Telmossé Foundation (santa-bob.org). There is more information on the TLWC at https://tlwc.net.

New WMMI exhibit, Dec. 21

Above: The Western Museum of Mining & Industry (WMMI) has a new exhibit. A Moment in Time: The Nevada Northern Railway chronicles the photographic journey of Charles W. Case who used a Hasselblad 500C/M camera and Zeiss lenses to capture the railroad’s stark beauty. Jaime Gorrell, WMMI museum curator, opened the exhibit on Dec. 21. Museum volunteers Gary Steffens (in photo) and Steve Berry spoke to the pre-opening attendees about their experiences with railroading. Berry drove steam locomotive No. 40 on a recent trip to the railway museum in Ely, Nev. The exhibit runs through April 15. Photo by Allison Robenstein.

Monument tree light removal, Jan. 2

Above: With the holidays in the rearview mirror, it was time to take down the lights at Limbach Park in Monument on Jan. 2. Workers from Savatree of Colorado Springs used poles that could extend 24 feet as well as cherry pickers to take down the lights that had been on since Dec. 7. The lights surrounding the park’s bandshell were still lit as of Jan. 2. Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

Kiwanis bellringing check presented to the Salvation Army, Jan. 11

Above: Monument Hill Kiwanis Club (MHKC) presented a check for $32,212.50 to the Colorado Springs Salvation Army (CSSA) on Jan. 11. The money was raised by Kiwanis bellringers during the holiday season. Members rang the bell for a total of 392 hours. Rob Knoth led all volunteers with 47 hours of bellringing. Heide Baker was second with 21 hours and Mark Anderson was third with 19. MHKC thanked residents of the Tri-Lakes community, the Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC), and Lewis-Palmer District 38 middle and high school Service Leadership programs for their help in reaching this goal. From left are Maureen Morgan and Kathy Sera-Budney of TLWC, Rich Couch of the Colorado Springs Kiwanis, Maj. Steve Ball of the CSSA, Mark Zieger from MHKC, Jeane Turner of the CSSA, Anderson and Knoth (MHKC), and Kiwanis President Bill Kaelin. Photo by Warren Gerig.

Geese at Big Red, Jan. 19

Above: On a frigid Jan. 19 afternoon, over 50 geese found a bit of warm sunshine on lawn at the D38 administration building (Big Red). Photo by David Futey.

TLWC receives Kiwanis award

Above: Monument Hill Kiwanis Club (MHKC) gave Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) a Community Service Award on Jan. 11. TLWC member Maureen Morgan, left, and co-President Kathy Sera-Budney accepted the award. MHKC honored TLWC for its continued long-term support of Kiwanis’ bellringing. Photo by Warren Gerig.

Monument Employees of the Year

Above: James Schubauer and Joe Castellano are Monument’s Employees of the Year for 2024. Schubauer, far right, is the parks superintendent and Castellano, middle, is the streets foreman. Interim Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek, left, says the two were recognized by both their co-workers and the town’s leadership team for their “dedication, contribution and commitment to our community.” They were recognized at the Jan. 21 Monument Town Council meeting. Photo by Tina Erickson.

TLWC accepting grant applications

Above: On Jan. 15, Tri-Lakes Women’s Club’s (TLWC) started accepting grant applications for 2025. Organizations eligible to apply include nonprofits, public service organizations, and public schools that serve the Tri-Lakes area. This year’s grants are worth up to $3,000, $1,000 more than before. The application package includes instructions as well as other important qualifying information. Applications must be submitted by Mar. 15. The TLWC program focuses on smaller organizations that typically do not have the staffing or resources to pursue grants from major granting foundations. Since 1973, TLWC has provided over $1 million in grants to local organizations including Palmer Ridge High School (PRHS), which bought an Automated External Defibrillator with the money. In the photo is Annie Vandenbussche, a school nurse consultant at PRHS. Photo by Amy Matisek.

Foggy fishing, Jan. 26

Above: The fog rolled in the morning of Jan. 26 making a mysterious scene on Monument Lake. The frozen lake was covered with ice fishing huts, and the trees were frosted white, making for a beautiful, though, cold morning. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic, Jan. 21

Above: Fireworks ended the Fourth Annual Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic. More than a thousand people saw Pine Creek High School beat the Lewis-Palmer Rangers for the second straight year in an overtime shootout. The score was 3-2. The Eagles took home the Star trophy, shaped like the Palmer Lake Star that was lit for the tournament. The event raises money for the Lewis-Palmer hockey team. Photo by Michael Weinfeld. See also the photo on page < 1 >.

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Student signing day, Nov. 13

More than two dozen student athletes from School District 38 signed national letters of intent to play their sport at the collegiate level on Nov. 13. Above: From left are Lewis-Palmer High School students Drew Boyarko (baseball, University of Colorado-Colorado Springs), Hunter Morgan (baseball, Dodge City Community College), Maddie Sanderson (volleyball, University of Montana), Abigail Perry (swimming, Ohio State University), Kate Kleinsmith (soccer, Seton Hall University), and Gwen McAllister (soccer, University of South Carolina Upstate).
Above: From left are Palmer Ridge High School students Myra Newman (volleyball, University of Mary), Lauren Clawson (volleyball, Fort Hays State University), Amara Langstaff (girls lacrosse, Slippery Rock University), Mia Hansen (volleyball, Southern Methodist University), Ryan Eells (lacrosse, University of Delaware), Channing Howarth (field hockey, Belmont Abbey College), Danielle Wilke (volleyball, Missouri Science and Tech), Haley Inscoe (soccer, Drury University), and Sydney Fisher (soccer, University of Nebraska at Kearney). Photos courtesy of D38.

Skoog honored by Sertoma, Nov. 20

Above: Daryl Skoog received the Service to Mankind award from the Gleneagle Sertoma Club on Nov. 20. Sertoman Donna O’Bryant says Skoog was honored for his “tremendous work ethic and dependability” as a transportation volunteer for Silver Key for the past four years. She says he put in more than 2,000 volunteer service hours giving more than 2,000 rides to more than 2,500 seniors. Skoog has also acquired vehicles for homeless families as a member of the group Family Promise. In addition, Skoog volunteers to help the prison ministry population. From left are Skoog, Jayme Holligan of Silver Key, and Sertoman Harvey LeCato. Photo by Dr. Vicki Wynn.

Kiwanis North Pole Craft Fair, Dec. 7

Above:The Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s annual North Pole Arts & Crafts Fair was held in the Grace Best Education Center Auditorium on Dec. 7 with over 2,000 people attending. Booths included baked goods made by local churches and food and handmade crafts made by vendors. Live holiday music and free pictures with Santa were featured. The fair is a fundraiser for Tri-Lakes Cares and 4KidzSports. For more information, contact monumenthillkiwanis@gmail.com. Photo by Marlene Brown.

Classic Monument Mercantile Santa

Above: Among the many Santas around Monument before Christmas, the tallest Santa greeted people at Monument Mercantile. Painted by Bing Flanery, the grandfather of Brody Love and father of Michael Love, co-owners of the Mercantile, around 1990 in Grand Prairie, Texas, this wooden Santa welcomed people into the Mercantile store. Shown with Santa on Dec. 12, from left, are Brenda Spiker, Brody Love (co-owner with Michael Love), Lynda Pate, and Chuck Spiker. Photo by Steve Pate.

Santa at annual tree lighting, Dec. 7

Above: Santa and Mrs. Claus might’ve been sweating in their red suits the night of the Monument tree lighting. It was unusually warm for a Dec. 7 with highs in the 50s. The lights on the trees and the bandshell seemed more elaborate this year. The annual event featured the Lewis-Palmer Middle and High School choirs, games, and food trucks. As usual, the event ended with Santa hearing suggestions from kids on what they wanted for Christmas. In photo, 3-year-old Noah Gaspar meets Santa and Mrs. Claus. Photo by Pam Braverman.

Arkenstone at TLCA, Dec. 7

Above: On Dec. 7, the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) and a capacity audience welcomed A Winter’s Eve with David Arkenstone and Friends. Arkenstone, with five Grammy nominations, 20 billboard hits, and over 800 compositions, played keyboard and guitar and was accompanied by Josh Gilgoff (percussion), Laurann Angel (violin), Cecilia Caughman (cello), and Kimberly Zaleski (flute) this evening. The festive song selection included I Saw Three Ships, Carol of the Bells, Deck the Halls, The Ice Palace, a song inspired by a story told by his grandmother, Tchaikovsky’s Arabian Dance from the Nutcracker ballet, and The Jumper, a Norwegian folk song. The second set song selection was performed entirely with acoustic instruments and in an intimate stage setting. It began with a Christmas song medley that included O Little Town of Bethlehem and The First Noel. Information on the TLCA is www.trilakesarts.org. Photo by David Futey.

Energy at Sacred Sites book signing

Above: Author Heidi Wigand-Nicely signed her newest book, Energy at Sacred Sites at Covered Treasures bookstore on Dec. 15. In the book, she shares stories of her hikes and travels, interviews and explorations with interested persons that include Native American Elders and scientists of both Western and indigenous native sciences. She offers special exploration hikes several times each year. Photo by Janet Sellers.

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Santa and Elf visit Palmer Lake Chili Dinner, Nov. 30

Above: On Nov. 30, Santa Claus and his elf arrived in style, trading in his magical sleigh for a Palmer Lake fire truck with lights flashing and sirens sounding. Children were able to visit with Santa and share their wishes for the holidays. The 89th annual Chili Supper and Star Lighting welcomed visitors from far and wide for the annual event. Inset: The Palmer Lake Firefighters Association welcomed attendees and served chili. Serving are Fernando Hernandez on the left and Jared Cabunoc on the right. Plenty of desserts were also available. In accordance with tradition, a drawing was held and the winner, Jack Yavanian, lit the Palmer Lake Star for the season. The star lighting is a decades-old tradition, serving as a symbol of hope for all throughout the holiday season. Photos by Janet Sellers.

WMMI honors departing staff

Above: On Oct. 30, Western Museum of Mining & Industry Executive Director Grant Dewey, far right, and the museum held a reception to honor three staff members departing the museum. From left, Lauren Knight, Richard Sauers, and Loretta Howden made significant contributions to further the museum’s mission and visitor experience. Knight was education coordinator for over three years and is departing to accompany her military spouse who is being transferred. Sauers and Howden are retiring after lengthy terms of service at the museum. During his 12 years at the museum, Sauers acted as executive director and then curator, being responsible for refining and advancing the museum’s collection. He also guided the grant funding and renovation process for the Reynolds Ranch Farmhouse located at the front of the museum property. Howden served the museum for over 20 years in a variety of capacities, starting as a volunteer then segueing to staff positions as marketing coordinator and operations manager. Information on the museum is at www.wmmi.org. Photo by David Futey.

Harvest of Love donates food

Above: Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) received 11,045 pounds of non-perishable food collected by D38 schools as part of the Harvest of Love program. The Monument Hill Kiwanis Club was originally scheduled to pick up the food on Nov. 6 and 8, but the pickups had to be postponed because of the snowstorm. The food was finally delivered on Nov. 15. TLC helps feed economically disadvantaged families during the holidays. In the photo, students from Bear Creek Elementary School pose in front of boxes of food. Photo by Dean Snow.

Gobble Squabble, Nov. 23

Above: Local robotics students took part in the fourth annual Gobble Squabble on Nov. 23. They took part in various competitions at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, including a scrimmage with 10 teams and a Robot Chaos competition with 14 combat robots. The three local teams called the Circuit Sharks, the 3rd Turtle, and Bionic Badgers will now compete in a qualifier tournament on Dec. 4 at Chatfield High School in Littleton. In the photo, the local teams scrimmage with their alliance teams. Photo by coach Jeanette Breton.

Cemetery history book signing

Above: Dozens of people, including most of the Monument Town Council and Mayor Mitch LaKind (on the left), lined up at Covered Treasures Bookstore in Monument on Nov. 30 to get a book on the history of the town cemetery signed by the authors. Local residents Michael Weinfeld and John Howe signed copies of Shootouts, Killings, and War Heroes: The History Hidden in Monument’s Cemetery the day the book was officially released. Customers were treated to pieces of a cake with a photo of the book on top (see photo on page < 1 >) as well as cookies baked by Howe. The event was part of Small Business Saturday. The book contains stories of the people buried in the cemetery as well as fun facts about the graveyard and the town. Copies will be available at the bookstore, the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce in Monument, and the Lucretia Vaile Museum in Palmer Lake, as well as on Amazon. Photo by Anikka van Zoeren.

A big crowd greeted Michael Weinfeld and John Howe at their book signing at Covered Treasures (17 sec)

Michael Weinfeld and John Howe signed their book at Covered Treasures on Nov. 30. (45 sec)

Kiwanis delivers Empty Bowls check

Above:The Monument Hill Kiwanis Club (MHKC) delivered a check for $11,700 raised during the annual Empty Bowls dinner to Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) on Nov. 2. MHKC, Lewis-Palmer School District 38, and Tri-Lakes Women’s Club help organize the Oct. 3 event. The money will benefit TLC’s various programs that help economically disadvantaged households in the area. From left are Kiwanis Project Manager Dave Bailey, TLC Director of Development Bill Lyons, and MHKC President Bill Kaelin. Photo by Bob Harrigan.

John Adams at TLCA, Nov. 2

Above: On Nov. 2, the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) welcomed TLCA favorite John Adams. Adams ushered in the holiday spirit as his first set was Christmas-themed songs. That was followed by a set of John Denver songs. Adams performed traditional Christmas songs such as Away in the Manger and Silent Night, in which he sang verses in German, Dutch, and English. He also performed songs Denver sang on Christmas albums and at concerts. These included The Peace Carol by Bob Beers, which Denver sang with the Muppets during a 1979 Christmas special, Last Night I Had the Strangest Dream written by Ed McCrudy, a poem by Robert Bridges titled Noel: Christmas Eve 1913, Christmas for Cowboys, written by Denver’s lead guitarist Steven Weisberg, The Marvelous Toy by Tom Paxton, and Aspenglow written by Denver. Information on upcoming events at the TLCA is at www.trilakesarts.org. Photo by David Futey.

Roth donates turkeys to TLC

Above: From left, Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) volunteers Andra Kneip, Rick Pohlman, Wilma Steenbergen join TLC Food Programs Manager James Russell and volunteer Dan Willemyns with the food donations at TLC. The man behind the Ford Amphitheatre in Colorado Springs donated 250 turkeys to TLC on Nov. 19. TLC Executive Director Haley Chapin said J.W. Roth has been donating turkeys “for years.” She said TLC asked Roth for more turkeys than usual this year and “he didn’t hesitate.” The group distributed the turkeys along with corn, green beans, stuffing, cranberry sauce, gravy and pie to 234 families on Nov. 19 and 21. That’s an increase of 47 families from a year ago. Photo by Nora McKay.

Elison at TLCA, Nov. 23

Above: Eric Elison’s Christmas with Bing show premiered at the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts on Nov. 23 to a capacity crowd. The final show will be at the Black Forest Community Club on Saturday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale at christmaswithbing.com. Pictured from left are Eric Elison, Evie Valentine, Natalie Jensen, and Ava Grace. Photo by Chris Lennon.

Woodmoor Nordic opens

Above: Thanks to the early November snowstorm, Woodmoor Nordic Nonprofit groomed its ski trails early and had many local skiers enjoying the snow on Nov. 9. This is its earliest opening to date. The last time it opened in November, it had a record-breaking 60-plus days of local skiing. The ski area is open to the public, and day or season passes are available, along with rentals by online reservation. More details can be found here: www.WoodmoorNordicNonprofit.org. Photo by Michael Brothers.

Snapshots of Our Community

Paint Drop-Off, Sep. 12

Above: Area residents got rid of thousands of gallons of old paint at the free PaintCare drop-off in Monument on Sept. 12. An estimated 19,200 pounds of latex paint and an estimated 1,600 pounds of oil-based paint were collected. Twenty-two gallons of latex and oil-based paint in good condition were given away. Photo courtesy of PaintCare.

Cemetery history, Oct. 3

Above: The Monument Homemakers hosted a talk on the history of Monument Cemetery at their monthly meeting Oct. 3. Among the topics covered by Michael Weinfeld, right, and John Howe were stories behind the deceased, some unusual causes of death, and the connection between the cemetery and the country’s most infamous prisons. The topics are included in Weinfeld and Howe’s upcoming book, Shootouts, Killings, and War Heroes, the History Hidden in Monument Cemetery. It wll be released on Nov. 30, the same day Howe and Weinfeld will be signing copies at Covered Treasures Bookstore in Monument from 1-3 p.m. The Monument Homemakers is in its 114th year, making it the oldest group still in existence in the Tri-Lakes area. The group meets on the first Thursday of the month at the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce building in Monument. Photo by Tia M. Mayer.

Above: Michael Weinfeld and John Howe speak to the Monument Homemakers about Monument Cemetery

Chamber wins awards, Oct. 4

Above: The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce earned three awards at the Colorado Chamber Alliance Signature Annual Conference on Oct. 4. The chamber came in second place for Highest Increase in Membership Dues Revenue. It got third place awards for both Highest Increase in Membership and Highest Membership Retention at the ceremony in Colorado Springs. The Tri-Lakes Chamber competed against more than 80 chambers from around the state. From left are Nathan Wessells, Tri-Lakes Chamber director of Membership, Terri Hayes, president and CEO, and Abigail Léger, event planner. Photo courtesy of Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce.

Empty Bowls Fundraiser, Oct. 3

Above: On Oct. 3, the Monument Hills Kiwanis Club hosted its annual Empty Bowls event at Lewis-Palmer High School. Hundreds of people attended, raising thousands of dollars for Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC). The event starts with the selection of a local artist’s bowl, then a silent auction and food served by D38 staff and board members and is accompanied by local musicians and staffed by volunteers. (Inset: Bear Creek Elementary Principal Donnell Potter and Lewis-Palmer High School Principal Bridget O’Connor) The Kiwanis’ mission is to make a positive difference for youth and our community. For more information, visit www.monumenthillkiwanis.org or call719-488-2327. TLC is a community-based, volunteer-supported resource center whose mission is to empower families and individual neighbors to reach toward a better tomorrow. TLC helps with utilities, housing, transportation, and medical costs and runs the only food pantry in Northern El Paso County. It relies on donations and volunteers to operate. For more information, visit www.tri-lakescares.org or call 719-481-4864. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Amphitheater update, Oct. 5

Above: On Oct. 5, organizers of the Ford Amphitheater (VENU) in Colorado Springs hosted a presentation at the venue for about 100 neighbors, providing a season recap and detailing sound mitigation plans. Despite third-party verification of sound compliance, the team acknowledged concerns and outlined efforts to expand sound barriers, adjust speaker configurations, and refine show hours to address community feedback.
Above: Outside the Oct. 5 presentation, 12 protesters gathered to express opposition to the development of the Ford Amphitheater (VENU). In response to ongoing community concerns, Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade released a public letter on Oct. 25 affirming the city’s commitment to addressing noise issues. Mobolade praised VENU’s mitigation efforts and announced plans for an independent noise study, pledging to hold a neighborhood meeting before year’s end to ensure residents’ voices continue to be heard. Photos by Chris Jeub.

Northern Lights, Oct. 10

Above: A storm 93 million miles away lit up the sky in our area on Oct. 10. The strong geomagnetic storm on the sun caused the sky to glow purple, green and blue, the sort of aurora borealis you can usually see only in places like Iceland, Greenland, or Alaska. Most people in our area couldn’t see it just by looking up. It could only be captured with a camera or cellphone set with a slow shutter speed. The type of gas in the atmosphere determined what colors you saw. Nitrogen caused the blue and purple glow; oxygen created the greens and reds. This photo was taken with an iPhone14 Pro, shutter speed of 3, looking west at a grove of cottonwoods and ponderosa pines with the foothills in the background. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

MFD Station 4 remodel, Oct. 12

Above: From left, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Leanne Hemenway, El Paso County Commissioner Holly Williams, Battalion Chief Kris Mola, Fire Chief Andy Kovacs, Division Chief of Administration Jamey Bumgarner (cutting the ribbon), Director Mark Gunderman, Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction Jonathan Bradley, Vice President John Hildebrandt, Monument Mayor Mitch LaKind are pictured at the Monument Fire District Station 4 remodel ribbon cutting on Oct. 12. Kovacs said the property built in 1997 was in need of an upgrade and he thanked Bumgarner, Logistics Officer Lt. Curt Leonhardt, and Fire Technician Joe Valdez, the district’s remodel design team, Kevin Schaffer of OZ Architecture, the Flintco Inc. construction team, and John Sattler of NV5 Inc., the owner’s representative services responsible for liaison and management of the project. Kovacs also thanked the Board of Directors, Williams, LaKind, several council members, and Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek for their continued support and the residents for approving the mill levy that improves the quality of life for the firefighters. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.

Pumpkin Giveaway, Oct. 19

Above: From left are Luke Brown, Sparky the Dog, and Connor Brown at the Seventh Annual Monument Local 4319 Pumpkin Giveaway at the Monument Market Place Clocktower on Oct. 19. Dianna Goodfellow of Mutual Security Mortgage Ltd., an Erie resident, organizes and sponsors the free event, traveling to Cooksey Farms in Roggen with a few firefighters and their families to hand cut and gather the donated pumpkins. The group delivered 600 pumpkins to the Clocktower steps, and with the help of other Local 4319 members, the pumpkins were positioned for the event. Attendees voted for their favorite carved/decorated pumpkin in the Fourth Annual Monument Fire District firefighter pumpkin decorating competition. Food donations were collected for the Tri-Lakes Cares food pantry. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.

Monument Lake Snake

Above: Even those with ophidiophobia (fear of snakes) can enjoy the Monument Lake snake. It was created last year with a few painted rocks and has now grown to more than 60. One rock in memory of someone’s pet Leyla has a collar wrapped around it. A black rock honors Air Force Special Warfare. There’s also a rock painted with a dinosaur and snake warming themselves by a fire. The rocks can be found in the northeast corner of Monument Lake across from the new pier. There’s an official-looking sign next to it that says “Monument Lake Snake, Est 2023.” Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Above: A snake made of painted rocks in in the northeast corner of Monument Lake

Limbach Park playground, Oct. 12

Above: Limbach Park was filled with the sounds of happy children Oct. 12 when a new playground was officially opened. The new playground replaces the old metal equipment with safer, plastic equipment colored bright blue and green. There is now a climbing structure with ropes, spinners, a merry-go-round, swings, (in photo) and a place for kids to create music. The floor is cushy and soft unlike the previous playground’s hard surface. Interim Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek told the crowd she’d been dreaming of rebuilding the town’s parks since she was first hired 11 years ago. She thanked residents for shopping in Monument because the tax dollars helped pay for the playground that cost about $400,000. The old merry-go-round, rocking animals, and framing equipment were auctioned off by the Schur Success Group. A couple from Colorado Springs bought them for $522. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Above: Kids climb at new Limbach Park playground.

Above: Kids have fun on the merry-go-round at the new Limbach Park playground.

Above: Kids play with a spinner at the new Limbach Park playground.

Above: Kids enjoy the swings at the new Limbach Park playground.

Above: The ribbon cutting ceremony at the opening of the new Limbach Park playground

Above: Kids enjoy the slide at the new Limbach Park playground.

Above: Kids create music at the new Limbach Park playground.

Above: Kids play music at the new Limbach Park playground.

Above: Monument Mayor Mitch LaKind says the playground is a big improvement.

Above: Interim Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek says the playground was paid for by the parks budget.

Girls on the Ridge, Oct. 16

Above: Girls on the Ridge Athletics earned the 100+ Women Who Care’s bi-annual donation on Oct. 16. Girls on the Ridge supports the young women who compete in Palmer Ridge High School sports. 100+ Women Who Care members each commit to contributing $100 to Tri-Lakes charities every April and October. The group picked Girls on the Ridge because it says it believes “sports have the power to teach important life skills, build confidence, and create a sense of community.” Tri-Lakes Cares and the Lewis-Palmer D38 Education Foundation were also in the running for the donation. From left are Girls on the Ridge representatives Kevin Dreher, Heidi Dreher, Holly Dreher, Zoya Scholsser, and Jennica Mabe. Photo by Cathy Wilcox.

WMMI Pumpkin Patch, Oct. 19

Above: Jordan and Mia Baez of Colorado Springs were among the over 4,000 attendees of the Western Museum of Mining & Industry (WMMI) Miners’ Pumpkin Patch. The patch was open every Saturday during October. On Oct. 19, many of the attendees selected a pumpkin or two to take home for their Halloween festivities just like the Baez sisters. Attendees also enjoyed a magician act, a ride in a barrel train, a variety of oversize games like Connect-4 and Jenga, and other outdoor activities. Information on upcoming events at the museum is at www.wmmi.org. Photo by David Futey.

Other Snapshots of Our Community

Snapshots of Our Community

Cruisers’ car show raises $7,500

Above: Antique cars filled Monument’s downtown area for the Tri-Lakes Cruisers’ 21st annual benefit car show on Aug. 18. The event raised $7,500 for Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC). A check was presented to the group on Sept. 11. In the photo, from left, are Cruisers Vice President Andy Houck, Cruisers Secretary Glenn Whiteside, TLC Director of Operations Julie Keim, TLC Development Specialist Christine Bucher, Cruisers President David Whitlock, TLC Director of Development and Planning Bill Lyons, and past Cruisers President Jim Nab.
Above: A 1929 Ford Model A truck. Photos provided by Andy Houck.

PL Farmers Market opened, Sep. 1

Above: On Sunday, Sept. 1, the new Palmer Lake Farmers Market opened in the back parking lot of the building where Calvert’s Mini Market is located at 4 Highway 105. The first market showcased a handful of local vendors offering produce, baked and canned goods, and handmade crafts. Calvert’s booth had salsas and snacks. The market has added many vendors and offerings each weekend since. The market will run on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. until Oct. 6.
Above: From left are Suan Calvert, owner Stephanie Calvert, Marc Calvert, and Tyler Calvert talking to a customer. Photos by Jackie Burhans.

9-11 Remembrance

Above: Members of The Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District (TLMFPD), Monument Police Department and American Legion Post 9-11 took part in a ceremony remembering the victims of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and those who died when a hijacked plane crashed in Shanksville, Penn. The ceremony took place at TLMFPD Station 1 on Highway 105 in Monument. Those in the photo include Interim Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek, Monument Police Chief Patrick Regan, Monument Police Commander John Lupton, Monument Police Sgt. Sam Yanez, Arleen Kinder, Ruby Taylor, American Legion Post 9-11 members Randy Fritz, Tony VanBeek, Jim Bergeron, Mike Christensen, Mike Pietsch, Bill Miller, Mike Schwamberger, and Ray Kinder, Monument Mayor Pro Tem Steve King, Monument Police Commander Tim Johnson, Monument Police Sgt. Mike Case, Monument Police Officer Demmaje Brown-Franklin, Monument Police Officer Paul Nyman, and Monument Police Officer Cory Yarbrough. Photo by retired Lt. Col. Chip Scharff.

Fox Run Park Accessibility Day

Above: Fox Run Regional Park had its first Outdoor Accessibility Day, Saturday Sept. 7. Parks in El Paso County are becoming ADA (American with Disabilities Act) compliant and are providing more resources to people with disabilities. A Terrain Hopper was test-driven by Mike Titera (shown in photo), who has Parkinson’s. He commented that he not been able to take a walk or hike on the trails for about five years. He was able to go on the trails and test drive the Terrain Hopper for about 30 minutes. Terrain Hoppers can traverse mud, sand, snow, rocks, and steep hills. Contact Bear Creek Regional Park at 719-520-7529 to make a reservation for a guided hike using a mobility-aided device. Photo by Marlene Brown.

Monument mixed use development

Above: As seen Sep. 18, construction is moving forward on a mixed-use development at the corner of Second and Front Streets in Downtown Monument. The project will cover 1.15 acres with 15 lots featuring residential and commercial retail spaces. Photo by Chris Jeub.

Palmer Lake Wine Festival, Sep. 14

Above: This year’s Palmer Lake Wine Festival was much warmer (hotter) than last year’s festival. It was held near the gazebo west of the lake on Sept. 14 and featured Colorado wines, food trucks, and music. Funds raised by the festival benefit Tri-Lakes Cares. Photo by Steve Pate.

Residents invest in fire protection

Above: A Monument Fire District (MFD) firefighter demonstrates hydrant capability on East Palmer Divide Avenue/County Road 404 on Sept. 18. About 133 homeowners from the Wissler Ranch development contributed funds to expand to a 45,000-gallon cistern with a hydrant for a total of $400,000. The system is capable of supplying 40 fire engines by hooking up a supply hose to the hydrant/tank system and will be invaluable for fighting wildland and house fires in the area. MFD is working with a few other neighborhoods to install a similar system.
Above: Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction Jonathan Bradley addresses homeowners from the Wissler Ranch development Photos courtesy of MFD.

New Limbach Park playground

Above: Exciting things are happening in Limbach Park! A new playground is on the way. There will be a ribbon cutting at the new playground Oct. 12. Photo by Chris Jeub.

PL pickleball courts are open

Above: As seen Sep. 27, the new pickleball courts are open in Palmer Lake, offering residents stunning mountain views while enjoying the popular sport. Photo by Chris Jeub.

Santa Fe Open Space Fall colors

Above: Fall colors have just started in the Santa Fe Open Space off the Santa Fe Regional Trail near Palmer Lake on Sept. 27. Photo by Steve Pate.

Palmer Lake 0.5K “Race”

Above and Below: About 1,500 people, assorted cartoon characters, and some dogs turned out for the 10th annual .5 (Point 5) K “Race” in Palmer Lake on Sept. 29. Donuts were available to re-energize “runners” at the halfway point and either a beer or soft drink was available at O’Malley’s for those who finished the jaunt. A bagpiper encouraged “runners” just before the donut break, and Palmer Ridge cheerleaders pictured below encouraged participants just before crossing the bridge to the finish line. The event is sponsored by Awake Palmer Lake and funds generated from entry fees and T-shirt sales go toward enhancing parks and maintaining other attractions around town. Photos by Steve Pate.

Other Snapshots of Our Community

Snapshots of Our Community

Youth Fire Camp, May 30-June 1

Above: High school students attending the second annual “Youth Camp” receive instruction at Monument Fire District’s Station 1 training room. Eleven high school students attended the camp May 30-June 1 to discover more about the type of work firefighters and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers carry out. Students were taught Stop the Bleed, CPR training, EMS skills and scenarios, forcible entry skills, vehicle extrication, and how to compete for a firefighter or EMS career position successfully. The camp is expected to continue annually for high school students with an interest in fire and EMS careers. The students and staff were grateful for the hospitality and lunch on the last day provided by Emergency Incident Support (EIS). Caption by Natalie Barszcz/Photo courtesy of Monument Fire District.

Kiwanis Peach Sale, Aug. 3

Above: For the second straight year, Monument Hill Kiwanis Club filled orders for more than 1,000 cases of hand-picked peaches on Aug. 3. The sales net the Kiwanis club about $10,000. The money funds grants to various groups in the Monument area. Fifty-two volunteers helped distribute the peaches in two-hour shifts. In the photo, Rick Schoenlein (face obscured), Chuck Leggiero, and Dean Snow manage to stuff three cases of peaches into the trunk of a BMW Z3. Photo by Bob Harrigan.

Chautauqua, July 29-Aug.4

Above and below: The local Chautauqua was revived in Palmer Lake for 2024 by the Palmer Lake Arts District. As a historic American cultural event, the weeklong cultural adventures included yoga and Feldenkrais classes, numerous historic cultural talks and walks, a guitar concert with Masa Ito, music with Ray DeMers and with the Tri-Lakes Brass ensemble, poetry readings by local poets, and kids’ paintings of the lake. Bagpiper Isaac Watkins led the “call for artists” from the bridge over the lake to the art pavilion to the all-day plein air painting contest. Michael Magrin (judge for the plein air art contest) led a cloud painting class that rounded out the art events courtesy of Palmer Lake Art Group. Photos include Watkins, a landscape scene of the crowd listening to the Tri-Lakes Brass, Jim Sawatzki sharing the Summer Sojourn at Palmer Lake Town Hall, Nicole Urbatchka leading yoga classes at the Village Green, and Magrin’s cloud painting class. Photos by Lynn Roth and Janet Sellers.

National Night Out, Aug. 3

Above: From left, El Paso County Sheriff’s Officers Lt. W Grier and Sgt. J Darbyshire (standing) engage with a group of young attendees at the annual National Neighborhood Night Out event at the Little Train Park in Promontory Pointe on Aug. 3. The Promontory Pointe Homeowners Association board members hosted the annual picnic for about 120 guests to thank local first responders from Monument Police Department, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, and Monument Fire Department for providing a safe neighborhood. Participants were treated to a live performance by singer/songwriter Nick Davey performing renditions of pop classics such as Brown Eyed Girl by Van Morrison, In the Summertime by Mungo Jerry, I’m Into Something Good by Herman’s Hermits, and a mashup of The Tide Is High made popular by Blondie with Stir It Up by Bob Marley and the Wailers. Sandwiches and cookies from Black Forest Café were served. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.

EV Chargers in Palmer Lake, Aug. 8

Above and below: On Aug. 8, the Town of Palmer Lake held a grand opening for a bank of two electric vehicle (EV) chargers installed by CORE Electric Cooperative, the town’s electricity provider. The chargers on town property south of County Line Road and east of Highway 105 are available to all EV drivers, but CORE customers get discounted prices. The Board of Trustees unanimously passed resolution 79-2023 authorizing a lease agreement with CORE. The ribbon cutting was attended by CORE Electric personnel and the Palmer Lake mayor, a trustee, and staff. Rob Osborn, CORE director of Business Development, and Rob Liechty, CORE member energy programs director, oversaw the installation. Osborn and Liechty said part of CORE’s mission was to serve smaller communities along the Front Range and support rural development. For more information, see https://ocn.me/v23n12.htm#plbot. From left are Town Administrator Dawn Collins, Liechty, Mayor Glant Havenar, Osborn, Trustee Shana Ball, and staff. Photos by Jackie Burhans.

Rotary assembles “blessing bags”

Above: On Aug. 15, members of the Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club assembled “blessing bags” for children filled with water, snacks, socks, and stuffed animals, which the Monument police will distribute to those in need. For more information, visit www.TLRotary.com. From left are Alisha Baty, Officer Kelly Fisher, Laurie Beasley, Christy Smith, Sloan Fisher-Goodwin, Nicole Schoolsky, Jonathan Bradley, and Shannon Schur. Photo by John Small.

Sue Walker retirement, Aug. 8

Above and below: An emotional Sue Walker said goodbye to Silver Key Senior Center at an Aug. 8 retirement party attended by an overflow crowd of more than 50 people. Walker, 61, has been director of the senior center for nine years. She told the crowd, “You guys are like my family.” Walker continued, “It’s a big adventure for me. It’s sad, but yet it’s happy.” She says she’ll especially miss volunteer Sandi Watson-Staggs, who she described as “a sister from another mister.” Walker plans on a “busy” retirement. She wants to travel, help her husband Jeff with his web development business and spend more time with their two daughters. Adrienne Timmons has been named interim director. Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

Sue Walker told seniors that they should take care of each other. (18 sec)

Sandi Watson-Staggs introduced Sue Walker, who said Sandi was her best friend at the senior center. (39 sec)

Sue Walker told the seniors that she’d miss them. (8 sec)

Sue Walker honored, Aug. 12

Above: During the Aug.12 recognition and farewell to Silver Alliance’s Program Manager Sue Walker, she shared a hearty laugh with her audience upon receiving Silver Key’s Gold Spoon Award from Silver Key Foundation Board President and CEO Jason DeaBueno. Walker was hired in 2013 by Tri-Lakes Silver Alliance to develop activities and events for the Tri-Lakes Senior Center. She inherited a program that was not much more than a once-a-week bingo and potluck luncheon run by local seniors themselves with about 25 attendees. She started adding regular exercise events, then informational presentations. Health and crafts programs followed. Soon she had a full calendar of activities spanning every day of the week with many being free events. She produced a monthly newsletter and with the help of her husband increased publicity through a dedicated website and published notices in the local papers. Although hired and paid as a part-time employee, it was rare when she was not found at the Senior Center promoting the many available classes and encouraging seniors to engage and socialize. Her enthusiasm for the program from the beginning was contagious, which accounted for the ten-fold increase in regular attendance during her tenure. Walker filled a key role in accomplishing a successful and seamless transition of the Senior Center from Silver Alliance to Silver Key in 2022. Now the Silver Key Senior Center, it is located in downtown Monument in the former Grace Best Elementary School, at the corner of First and Jefferson Streets, across from St. Peter Catholic Church. For more information, visit www.silverkey.org/trilakes/. Photo by Allen Alchian.

PL Pickleball Courts, Aug. 12

Above: On Aug. 12, workers were placing fencing around the Palmer Lake Pickleball courts located adjacent to the lake. Photo by David Futey.

OCN reporter now naturalized American citizen

By Lisa Hatfield

Helen Walklett has been reporting for Our Community News since early 2017. She emigrated to the United States with her husband and two daughters from the United Kingdom in 2016. In her prior life, she was an elected member of Rothbury Parish Council in Northumberland, the northern-most county of England, so she already understood the workings of local government. This made her a perfect candidate to report on the El Paso Board of County Commissioners meetings when she volunteered with OCN.

The Walklett family submitted the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form N-400 Application for Naturalization in March 2024 after holding “green cards” for the required five years, and then all separately took the citizenship test as part of an immigration interview in July. When USCIS granted approval, Walklett and her family received their notice to take the Oath of Allegiance, which happened on Aug. 14. They turned in their permanent resident cards and recited this oath:

“I hereby declare, on oath, that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty, of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen; that I will support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I will bear arms on behalf of the United States when required by the law; that I will perform noncombatant service in the Armed Forces of the United States when required by the law; that I will perform work of national importance under civilian direction when required by the law; and that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; so help me God.”

Lisa Hatfield can be reached at lisahatfield@ocn.me.

Above: From left are Eleanor, Helen, Kate, and Peter Walklett. Photo by Kathy Troka.

NASTaP Gathering, Aug. 16-18

Above: The Annual Membership Meeting and Gathering of Native American Sacred Trees and Places (NASTaP) was held Aug. 16-18 at La Foret Conference Center in Black Forest. NASTaP is a nonprofit 501C3 that was formed over five years ago to help educate the public and protect the Culturally Modified Trees (CMTs) along the Front Range and beyond the state’s borders. Presentations were by well-known anthropologists and authors regarding the migration of Native American tribes for several thousands of years across North America and the trail marker trees left behind. Many of the CMTs are considered living artifacts and were modified for several different reasons. During the evenings, drumming and traditional Native American dancing were featured. For more information regarding NASTaP, go to nastap.org. Photo by Elva Wolin. Caption by Marlene Brown.

Trinity Park welcomes all

Above: The Trinity Community Park grand opening and community celebration was held on Saturday, Aug. 24, with games, prizes, crafts, food trucks, music entertainment and, of course, the opening of the newest phase of the park. Hundreds of people turned out for the grand opening of the 2½-acre Trinity Community Park on Aug. 24. Festivities included music, dancing, dog training, and games for kids and adults and food trucks. The park is designed to allow kids with and without disabilities to play together. A dog park is also planned for the area. Sponsors contributed to the creation of the park along with the Town of Monument. The park welcomes people of every age and ability. The playground is diverse and inclusive, and shares the benefits of play and exploration as vital community connections, creating unity and well-being in the community. The first of its kind in Monument, the park is loaded with fun areas that are Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant, accessible for old and young alike, areas that include the pavilion, sidewalk, parking, and signs, with tables, benches, and security cameras. The park features playground equipment for exercise, sound, wheelchair accessible features such as the merry-go-round, and more. Sponsors contributed to the creation of the park along with the Town of Monument. The park is just west of Trinity Lutheran Church at 17750 Knollwood Dr., Monument. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Monu-Palooza, Sept. 1

Above: On Sept.1, sharks were dancing on stage and concert-goers on the lawn for the Matt Bloom Band during the eighth annual Monu-Palooza Music Festival. The daylong festival lineup also included Mojo Filter, Skin & Bones, Emily Hall, Ashtōnz, and WireWood Station. Charlie and Marissa Searle co-organized the festival held at Monument’s Limbach Park. Charlie Searle, also a band member of Ashtōnz, said the festival has become a “local institution” with the “lineup one of the best we have had, the sponsorship has been great, and support from friends and others have helped made this a terrific festival.” Marissa Searle said, “We are proud to bring this to the community each year. All the bands have local roots and all but one have played the festival multiple times.” Matt Bloom, whose band is from Palmer Lake, said, “This is the third time we have played the festival; it has great energy and a super cool crowd.” Photo by David Futey.

Academy Jazz Ensemble, Aug. 23

Above: On Aug. 23, the Academy Jazz Ensemble performed a show in conjunction with the Pikes Peak Library District. The show was held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Village on the Green, by the gazebo behind the Palmer Lake Library building. The Academy Jazz Ensemble is a professional big band whose mission is to explore and preserve the music of America’s original art form. Its members include the finest jazz musicians in the area, many of whom are public schoolteachers, including former and current Palmer Ridge High School Band Directors Butch Eversole and Sarah Romero. Attendees enjoyed great music, beautiful weather, and spectacular skies. For more information on the Academy Jazz Ensemble, see www.academyjazz.org. For more information on events at the Palmer Like Library, see www.ppld.org/palmer-lake-library. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Eagle Scout Project aids Trinity Park

Above: Matthew Grundel of Boy Scout Troop 9 in Monument earned his Eagle Scout badge by landscaping the entrance and loop drop-off area at Trinity Community Park in Monument. Not only did Matthew coordinate all the work but he completed all the fundraising. Assisted by many of Matthew’s fellow scouts, he planted native grasses and wildflowers that will add beauty and require minimal upkeep. Park Executive Director Tamara Schwarz thanked Grundel for his hard work. Pictured from left, Sam Yount, Braiden Sere, and Grundel work on the project. Photo by Corey Grundel.

WMMI Family Day, Aug. 24

Above: On Aug. 24, the Western Museum of Mining & Industry (WMMI) offered a variety of activities and exhibitors during Family Day: Farming & Ranching. The museum provided hayrides, gold panning, blacksmith exhibits, the operation of the Yellow Jacket Stamp Mill and other outdoor machinery, and tours of the Reynolds House. Attendees could also visit a variety of vendors including the Pikes Peak Beekeepers Association, Twig & Berry Dyes, Palmer Land Conservancy, Gingersnap Rescue Ranch and Dianne’s Dahlias, which offer dahlias grown on the museum property and sold at the museum’ s farmers market on Monday and Wednesday. A portion of the proceeds from the dahlia sales benefit the museum and its education mission. Information on tours and upcoming museum events is at wmmi.org. Photo by David Futey.

Murphey at TLCA, Aug. 31

Above: On Aug. 31, Michael Martin Murphey captivated a sold-out Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) audience for two hours, drawing upon his over 50 years of songwriting. He said this once-a-year solo tour acts as a “remembrance for my father and to basically remind me how I began.” He introduced each song with in-depth background on the song’s genesis and inspiration. The background stories included travels with his father through Rocky Mountain National Park as a youth, growing up in east Texas, living and recording in Los Angeles, Colorado and Nashville, supporting Native American voting rights, St. Francis of Assisi, and his friendships with Lyle Lovett, Willie Nelson, and Waylon Jennings among others. The song list included Cosmic Cowboy, his first country hit What’s Forever For?, Geronimo’s Cadillac, Carolina in the Pines, Medicine Man, Boy From the Country, and Wildfire. Information on upcoming events at the TLCA is at www.trilakesarts.org. Photo by David Futey.

Other Snapshots of Our Community

Snapshots of Our Community

Alta ribbon-cutting, June 26

Above: The Alta 25 apartment complex at 1320 Herman View Way in Monument opened its doors with a ribbon cutting on June 26. The complex features one, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in three-story garden-style buildings. Photo by Charlie Searle.

Concert in the Park, June 26

Above: Mimic, a classic rock cover band, has audience members dancing as it played to a full crowd on June 26 during the Concert in the Park series at Limbach Park. Photo by Laura Lucero.

Palmer Lake Fun Run, July 4

On a brisk July 4 morning, over 500 runners participated in person and over 200 virtually in the 42nd annual Palmer Lake Fourth of July Fun Run. The 4-mile race from Palmer Lake to Monument on the Santa Fe Trail traditionally starts the Fourth of July activities in the Tri-Lakes area. Race Coordinator Kelsey Belcher thanked “the volunteers and communities of Palmer Lake and Monument for their continuing support of the race.” She also extended “special thanks to the Palmer Lake Police Department, Storm Guard Construction, a decades-long supporter of the race, Bluestaq, and other vendors who make this race possible with their support.” Proceeds from this 100% volunteer-supported race go directly to the Palmer Lake Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization to distribute for classroom and teachers’ needs. Dillon Powell (19:20:52) and Aubrey Surage (23:26:97), both from Colorado Springs, were the top male and female finishers by chip time. Surage has been the top female finisher for three years in a row. Photos by David Futey.

Above: Ben, Mia, and Grace Kimes of Colorado Springs showed off their Fourth of July spirit before running in the Palmer Lake Fun Run.
Above: Runners make their way around the lake at Palmer Lake just after the 7 a.m. start of the Palmer Lake Fun Run.

Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast, July 4

Knights of Columbus Council 11514 of St. Peter Church hosted its annual Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast. Past Grand Knight Alan Feldkamp said, “1,400-1,500 were expected to attend with over 10,000 pancakes being made by Knights volunteers.” Feldkamp said proceeds from the breakfast go toward “Tri-Lakes Cares, Marion House, Lewis Palmer D-38 School District disabled students, Catholic Charities, and other charities supported by the Knights.” Volunteers from the Monument Hill Kiwanis, Veterans of Foreign Wars, St. Peter students, and Boy Scout Troop 17 assisted in making the event a success. Active-duty military and first responders in uniform ate for free. Photos by David Futey.

Above: The St. Peter walkway was packed with attendees of the Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast.
Above: Knights of Columbus Council 11514 Grand Knight Bob Lynn was one of the many volunteers who assisted with the Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast.

Monument Children’s Parade, July 4

Above: From left are Chason Pace, Paisley Harris, Hattie Pollock, Lillian Pace, and Freddy Pollock came attired in red, white, and blue to participate in the Fourth of July Children’s Parade. The Pollock children came all the way from Iowa to attend the parade. Photo by David Futey.
Above: Scouts from Boy Scout Troop 17 lead the way for the Fourth of July Children’s Parade. Photo by David Futey.

The Monument 4th of July parade started with the traditional kids parade. (14 sec)

Monument Parade, July 4

Bands and floats preparing for the 4th of July parade in Monument.

Parade participants lined up along Old Denver Rd preparing to join Monument’s July 4th parade

Fourth Infantry Division Band from Fort Carson.

The Fourth Infantry Division Band from Fort Carson marched in Monument’s 4th of July parade (10 sec)

Above: Scott Ross, Kiwanis president
Above: D38 President Tiffany Upchurch and Superintendent Dr. Stacie Datteri.
Above: Rich and Shannon Schur, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Business Persons of the Year 2023. Photo by David Futey.
Above: Sheri Miller, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce 2023 Volunteer of the Year. Photo by David Futey.
Above: Maddy Norton, 2024 El Paso Fair Queen and LPHS senior. Photo by David Futey.
Above: Eight-year-old Boone Lester dressed up as George Washington to watch the Fourth of July parade in Monument. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.
Above: The Tri-Lakes Women’s Club.
Above: Palmer Ridge High School BearBotics Robotics.

The Palmer Ridge High School BearBotics Robotics team took part in the Monument 4th of July parade (9 sec)

Above: Lewis-Palmer High School football team.
Above: Palmer Ridge High School football team.
Above: Lewis-Palmer High School cheerleaders.
Above: Palmer Ridge High School cheerleaders.
Above: Tri-Lakes Majors softball team.
Above: Tri-Lakes Little League team.
Above: Lewis-Palmer High School poms.
Above: Monument Fire Department.

Tiny and large dinosaurs danced the Monument 4th of July parade route. (13 sec)

The Colorado Renaissance Festival had a huge contingent in Monument’s 4th of July parade. (1 min 27 sec)

A C-130 cargo plane made several flyovers during Monument’s 4th of July parade. (20 sec)

Monument Street Fair, July 4

Above: Second and Washington Streets in Monument were filled with Fourth of July spectators, enjoying various foods, viewing arts, and local business and nonprofit booths as part of the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Street Fair. Live music was also available throughout the afternoon at Limbach Park. Photo by David Futey.
Above: The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce set up a booth during the Fourth of July Street Fair in Monument. John Howe, left, manned the booth that morning and was joined by Lisa Hatfield. Both Howe and Hatfield are Our Community News volunteers. OCN is a member of the chamber. Photo by Steve Pate.

Hazel Miller at TLCA, July 19

Above: On July 19, Colorado Music Hall of Fame member Hazel Miller and her backup band The Collective returned to the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) stage. Miller, a TLCA audience favorite, and the Collective sets included a blend of blues, jazz, and swing genres. The genre diversity was typified by songs performed including Do Wrong Shoes by Jackie Allen, It Don’t Mean a Thing by Duke Ellington, She Just Wants to Dance by Gary U.S. Bonds, and Rio de Janeiro Blues by Joe Sample and Randy Crawford. Information on upcoming events at the TLCA is at www.trilakesarts.org. Photo by David Futey.

Car show at JCSL, July 27

Above: Jackson Creek Senior Living (JCSL), 16601 Jackson Creek Parkway, held its third annual classic car and hotrod show by the Tri-Lakes Cruisers Car Club on July 27. The proud owners of the vehicles were glad to discuss how they restored and modified these classic vehicles. JCSL provided food and live entertainment for residents and guests. For information about JCSL services, you may contact Laura Hale, 719-259-1331. Pictured: Glen Whiteside with his modified 1933 Chevy hotrod. Photo by Steve Pate.

Other Snapshots of Our Community articles

Snapshots of Our Community

Picnic N Planes, May 30

Above: On May 30, the Western Museum of Mining & Industry (WMMI) held its annual Picnic N Planes event in celebration of the Air Force Academy graduation and Thunderbirds air show. The museum’s hilltop was dotted with numerous lawn chairs, blankets, and umbrellas to shade the sun as over 500 visitors took advantage of the ideal vantage point for the Thunderbird’s aerial show. Museum Executive Director Grant Dewey said the museum “was very excited to host the event and to have visitors from around the state take part.” Museum volunteer Gary Steffens was among a group aged 19 to 75 from Denver and Colorado Springs who make this an annual event. Steffens said, “This is the ninth year we have attended for the friendship, food to share, and the great air show.” The museum has hosted the event for more than a dozen years. Information on upcoming museum events is at wmmi.org. Photo by David Futey.

Sanctuary Pointe Park opens

Above: The Triview Metropolitan District Board of Directors and Classic Homes officially opened the new Sanctuary Pointe Park on Sanctuary Rim Drive in Sanctuary Pointe on May 31. Food trucks were available and Wirewood Station provided music from the covered pavilion. Jim McGrady handled the ribbon-cutting on behalf of Tri-Lakes Metropolitan District. Triview and Classic Homes each contributed about $1 million to the construction, which includes a sporting field, covered pavilion, and access to about 10 miles of hiking trails. Photo by Steve Pate.

Tri-Lakes Lions Fishing Derby

Above and below: The Tri-Lakes Lions Club held its annual kids fishing derby at Palmer Lake on June 1. About 260 kids registered for this year’s event and were accompanied by parents or other adults who helped bait hooks, cast, and handle fish. Last year’s event was cold and windy, but this year saw calm, sunny conditions. Colorado Parks and Wildlife stocked the lake with rainbow trout a few days before the derby, and those using “power baits” seemed to land more fish than those using worms or other baits. Again this year, Jim Hazuka organized the Lions Club and other volunteers who helped with registration and measuring fish for the contests—largest fish for each age group. Sponsors included Colorado Parks and Wildlife, which donated fishing gear for those who did not bring their own, Bass Pro Shops, Roadrunner Bait, which donated free fishing worms, Rosie’s Diner, the Town of Palmer Lake, Safeway, Colorado Friends and Family Fishing, Tri-Lakes Printing, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, and 3GEngagement. Photos by Steve Pate.

Kiwanis celebrates 50th

Above: Monument Hill Kiwanis Club celebrated its 50th anniversary on June 1. Members got together at Maguireville, which is where Monument resident Jim Maguire has two barns filled with memorabilia. They celebrated past Kiwanis achievements and heard President Scott Ross talk about plans for the future. A spokesman says the club gave out $109,000 in grants last year to “make a positive difference for youth and our community.” Photo by Bob Harrigan.

Silver Key Thrift Store reopens

Above: The Silver Key Thrift Store in the West End Center on Highway 105 has expanded and had its “Grand Reopening” on June 7. About 100 people turned out to support the store, which provides funding for many activities and resources for seniors through the local Silver Key Senior Center in the Grace Best Elementary School building in Monument. Jason DeBueno, president of Silver Key, Colorado Springs, was on hand, along with local dignitaries Jayme Holligan, director of Volunteer Events and Community Engagement, and Sue Walker, who manages the local Silver Key center. Tammy Jones manages the newly reopened thrift store and the volunteers who staff and support the store. The store offers a variety of clothing, books, paintings, tools, cooking utensils, etc., at low cost. Photo by Steve Pate.

D38 Innovate 38, June 20

Above: On June 20, nearly 50 people gathered at the D38 Learning Center in the Big Red administration building to participate in the Innovate 38 community discussion. Attendees included staff, parents, community members, community partners, and students. The forum was designed to discuss programming ideas for D38’s new Career and Innovation Center, to be located at the newly purchased facility, slated to open in August 2025. Director of Innovative Programs Jessica McAllister welcomed attendees, set meeting norms, and defined Career and Technical Education (CTE) as a modern, expanded version of vocational technology that emphasizes real-world, hands-on skills leading to high-demand, high-wage jobs. Dr. Tatiana Bailey Ph.D. of Data-Driven Economic Strategies, reviewed the state of the job market, focusing on job areas with high rates of growth. Attendees broke into table sessions to discuss goals for programming in the new center. For more information on CTE, see www.lewispalmer.org/page/career-technical-education. To see the Innovate 38 forum video and slides, see bit.ly/d38-innovate. Pictured standing at the front of the room with the microphone is McAllister. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative

Above: The Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance (PPORA) held one of six public listening meetings at Bear Creek Elementary School on June 21. The alliance introduced and explained the Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative (OPPI) and listened to interested members of outdoor businesses, nonprofits, government entities, and local outdoor enthusiasts. The PPROA’s mission is to strengthen the outdoor industry in the Pikes Peak Region through leadership and collaboration. One of its core values is the protection, conservation, and stewardship of natural resources. Land and water management promotes healthy ecosystems for communities and wildlife. Proper management of natural resources can promote economic growth for local businesses and the workforce, the alliance says. PPORA is asking for help from the area communities in the planning process of OPPI. For more information, contact it at pproa.org. Photo by Marlene Brown.

Rainbow over Gleneagle, June 21

Above: For a brief moment at 5:30 a.m. on June 21, a rainbow greeted early risers in the Gleneagle area as a light rain fell. Photo by David Futey.

Shakespeare in Palmer Lake, June 22

Above and below: Shakespeare’s Two Gents was presented by Act Out Theatreworks on the Village Green in Palmer Lake on Saturday, June 22. The play is a version of Two Gentlemen from Verona. Using the words of Shakespeare’s time, actors were staged upon the lawn, attired in campy modern garb. The event was courtesy of the Palmer Lake Arts Council. Photo above by Janet Sellers. Photo below by Lynn Roth.

St. Peter welcomes new principal

Above: St. Peter Catholic School has a new principal. Karen Shannahan comes from St. Pius X Catholic School in Aurora, where she held the same position. Before that, she was a fifth-grade teacher at Monument Academy. The school says Shannahan “plans to focus on forming virtuous students and promoting academic excellence through nurturing relationships with students, parents, staff, parishioners and the Monument community.” Photo courtesy of Karen Shannahan.

Art Hop, June 28

Above: June 28, artist Steve Castle of Woodmoor presented his watercolors of Americana at the Love Shop outdoor porch venue. An Air Force veteran and aerospace retiree, Castle has been making watercolor paintings since childhood. Next to him is his painting The Sole Survivor. The vintage truck depicted was the only surviving—and untouched—part of the Flying W Ranch after the Waldo Canyon wildfire.
Above: James Divine of JazzySaxMan.com played pop songs on his saxophone on Front Street.
Above: The music group Hickabee, complete with bass, fiddle, guitars, and mandolin, played folk and blues tunes from the Monument Mercantile shop veranda for Art Hop passersby. Photos by Janet Sellers.

Art Sites completes installations

Above: On June 28, the selection committee for the Art Sites outdoor public art in Monument celebrated the completion of the installation of sculptures throughout Monument in June at the Secret Window events venue. The artist call was well received nationwide, and artists from across the United States submitted their work with 12 artists’ works chosen for the 2024-25 exhibition season, delivered by the artists and installed by the Town of Monument in June. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Other Snapshots of Our Community

Snapshots of Our Community

Snapshot Caption Corrections

In the May issue of OCN, in the Snapshots of Our Community,

• it was stated that Emily Osborn won the third place PLAG scholarship. Actually Ella Davis won that scholarship.

• The caption on the Earth Day Tree Planting April 21 should have identified the people pictured (L to R) as Tamara Schwarz, Aida Richardson, Don Richardson, 101-year-old WWII vet Marie West, Patsy Janeba and John Janeba. It should also have noted that the photo was taken by Tamara Schwarz.

• The photo of the Tim Watkins Memorial Trail sign was taken by Brian Mullin. Mullin also reinstalled the sign after safeguarding it during wildfire mitigation last year.

OCN regrets the errors.

Wildfire Preparedness Day, Apr. 27

Above: Palmer Ridge High School’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) hosted the annual Wildfire Preparedness Day on April 27. Four speakers talked about home mitigation, fire evacuation, planning, and regional analysis. Civilian and governmental agencies including the Red Cross, Monument Fire Department, and Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management also provided information. Photo by Ella Blakely.

LPHS band concert, May 7

Above: The Lewis-Palmer High School (LPHS) band performed its final concert of this school year, a Pops concert featuring seniors in the Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Symphony on May 7 at the LPHS auditorium. Directed by Sam Anderson, each band featured solos by senior musicians, and seniors were honored for their contributions during their tenure at LPHS. Awards received by these talented musicians were also announced. Photo by Steve Pate.

Little Log Church celebrates 100th

Above: The Little Log Church in Palmer Lake celebrated its 100th anniversary on May 11. Those attending got to tour the log chapel that was built in 1924. Some wore 1920s-era clothes, including members of the 100th anniversary planning committee (in photo). A scavenger hunt was also part of the festivities. Standing from left are Donna Ewers, Anne Jones, Chairman Kristi Olsen, and Betty Thomas. Seated is Pastor Bill Story. Photo by Pete Olsen.

Taste of Tri-Lakes Cares, May 15

Above: The Taste of Tri-Lakes Cares 40th anniversary event was held on May 15 at the Spruce Mountain Events Center. Participating restaurants competed in a “Chopped” style event by crafting tasty samples from a basket of items from the Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) food pantry. The judges’ favorite was UVA Wine Bar & Restaurant, while the crowd’s favorite was Bethesda Gardens Monument Assisted Living and Memory Care. The sold-out event with 400 attendees was supported by numerous sponsors, celebrity judges, staff, and volunteers. It was TLC’s most successful Taste of Tri-Lakes Cares event ever. Executive Director Haley Chapin, left, looks on as TLC board President Rich Schur of Schur Success Group thanks event organizer and TLC Development Specialist Christine Bucher. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Pelicans on Lake Woodmoor

Above: It was cold, gray, and foggy on April 20 when Misty Reed of Woodmoor spotted something unusual on Lake Woodmoor. A squadron of pelicans were huddled together in an inlet. Certainly not something you see every day. Photo by Misty Reed.

Monument wind storm, May 6

Above: It was so windy on May 6 there were waves with white caps on Monument Lake. A tree was knocked down at St. Peter Catholic School (in photo). Flags were flying straight up. A high wind warning was issued by the National Weather Service. A gust of 60 mph was recorded on Monument Hill. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Above: Flags outside Jackson Creek Senior Living show how windy it was. (12 sec)

Above: The wind created white-capped waves on Monument Creek. (23 sec)

Monument hydrant flushing, May 9

Above: The Monument Water Department finished its annual hydrant flushing last month. About 300 hydrants were cleaned of sediment buildup over nine days. Up to 1,400 gallons a minute spewed from this hydrant off Monument Lake Road on May 9. From left, water techs Jon Rigaud, Ryan Sieber, Da’John Lee, Danny Kuchinsky, and Clint Gavigan. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Above: Monument water techs flush a hydrant. (9 sec)

LPES 50th anniversary, May 13

Above: On May 13, Lewis-Palmer Elementary School celebrated its 50th anniversary with an open house and ribbon cutting. Current and former administrators, teachers, parents, students, school board, and community members were greeted with balloons, popcorn, and snacks, and displays of yearbooks. The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center provided the ribbon and the very large scissors for the ribbon cutting. Staff members held the ribbon for current and former D38 staff and board, from left, former Principal Jenny Day, Ted Bauman, Dr. Jerry Parsons, Principal Davonne Johnson, board President Tiffiney Upchurch, Acting Superintendent Amber Whetstine, board member Todd Brown, former board member Tommie Plank, and Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Silver Key Senior Summit, May 16

Above: Sue Walker, director of the Silver Key Senior Center in Monument, organized activities at the Silver Key Senior Summit at the Great Wolf Lodge in Colorado Springs on May 16. The Monument senior center events included tai chi demonstrations, chair yoga, and line dancing (pictured). Our local Silver Key Senior Center, located at 66 Jefferson St. in the Grace Best Elementary School building, offers many services for seniors which can be seen at https://www.silverkey.org. For more information, call 719-884-2300. Staff and volunteers are pictured at Tri-Lakes Silver Key, Monument. From left are Sandi Watson-Staggs, Mary Frances Quattlebaum, Sue Walker, and Mary Lou Figley. Photo by Steve Pate.

Art Hop, May 24

Above: May 24 brought back Monument’s monthly Art Hop for spring and summer. Here, artist Dawn Healy of Black Forest shared her intricate and distinctive gourd art. Healy was the featured artist at Bella Art and Frame Gallery for May. The gallery will showcase different artist exhibitions each month along with the gallery’s signature artists. Amid the festive atmosphere of music, conviviality, and refreshments for the art lovers—and art buyers of course—locals and visitors alike enjoyed the small-town fun of visiting with each other in Downtown Monument as they celebrated the arts with community spirit. This year, the Art Hop has been moved from the third Thursday of the month to the fourth Friday.

Above: The musical group Flashback played in front of the Love Shop in the Front Street Square. Flashback entertained passersby with popular rock tunes. Photos by Janet Sellers.

Mid-June Prescribed Burn

Above: During this past week, preparations have been underway for a prescribed burn in Pike National Forest, west of Monument near Mt. Herman. Federal and Town employees and community volunteers are removing ground fuel from the forest along Mt. Herman Road to ensure a slow controlled burn. In this photo, Rick Binder and Val Burt from Team Rubicon work alongside a chipper crew from the Monument Fire Department. Over three days of effort, more than 60 volunteers mitigated 13 acres of Pike National Forest. The prescribed burn is scheduled for mid-June. If/when you see smoke, please do not call 911 unless you see a fire (not smoke) that is unattended. The prescribed burns are weather-dependent and are expected to take place over three days at Memorial Grove, Monument Rock, and the Mount Herman trailhead. Once the prescribed fires begin, smoke may be seen for several days. Photo by Marianne LaRivee.

First MA East HS Graduation

Above: Monument Academy East Campus held its first high school graduation on May 18. The campus opened in fall 2019. There were 21 students in the senior class of 2024, including Valedictorian Scott Kohlhase (below). Kohlhase is among 144 seniors in Colorado who received the prestigious Daniels Fund Scholarship. More than 200 relatives, staff, and community members attended the ceremony at the front of the campus. Photo by Evan Clay/ClayVisuals. Monument Academy East Campus held its first high school graduation on May 18. The campus opened in fall 2019. There were 21 students in the senior class of 2024, including Valedictorian Scott Kohlhase. Kohlhase is among 144 seniors in Colorado who received the prestigious Daniels Fund Scholarship. More than 200 relatives, staff, and community members attended the ceremony at the front of the campus. Photo by Evan Clay/ClayVisuals.

Monument Presbyterian Church

Above: Monument Presbyterian Church celebrated its 150th anniversary on May 19. Attended by church members and the community, the Founders Day celebration and dedication of Sheldon Jackson Chapel at the church was held at the Sunday worship. A reception in the chapel and on the west lawn featured vintage 1880s desserts. Photos courtesy of Daniel Krucoff.

Vets march for suicide awareness

Above: You might’ve seen three men, one waving an American flag, marching down the side of the road in Monument or Palmer Lake on May 24. They are veterans hoping to raise awareness about veteran suicide. They hiked from Denver to Colorado Springs and then to Castle Rock in 3 1/2 days. The veterans belong to the Castle Rock group ConnorsK9 P.A.W.S. President and founder Michael Connors, a disabled retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant, was joined by veterans Joshua Henkels and a man known simply as Nova. Statistics show 22 veterans die by suicide each day, but Connors suspects it’s closer to 40. When he tried to take his own life, a service dog stopped him. Now, he’s helping others who might be in a similar situation. His 501c3 nonprofit provides professional service dogs to veterans. He hopes his march will result in an increase in donations that would pay for service dog training equipment. To donate, go to connorsk9paws.org and click on How to Support. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Three veterans walked during the Memorial Day weekend to raise awareness of veteran suicide. (12 sec)

Michael Connors, a disabled Army veteran, says more veterans commit suicide every day than you think. (20 sec)

Water tank completed, May 23

Above: During the last weeks of May, contractors established sustainable erosion control measures and landscaping at the site of the newly constructed, controversial Monument water tank. Located in the residential Forest View Heights HOA west of Monument, the 2-million-gallon tank serves as water storage for the Town of Monument. Nearby residents have complained about the height of the tank. Rocked drainage sites and ground cover include seeding mat, planting of 55 trees, 35 shrubs and various deep-rooting, drought-resistant grasses. As of May 23, all the vegetation had been planted. Surface irrigation provides water to establish start-up growth and will be removed after two years. Excavation for the tank began two years ago, with landscaping of the surrounding area as the final stage to completion. Photo by Sharon Williams.

Other Snapshot Sections

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

Snapshots of Our Community

NASTaP hike in Fox Run Park, Mar. 9

Above: Members of Native American Sacred Trees and Places (NASTaP) and others went on a hike with Heidi Wigand-Nicely to look for Culturally Modified Trees (CMTs) on March 9 in Fox Run Regional Park. CMTs in Fox Run Park have been purported to have been bent, twisted, grafted or otherwise modified by the Ute and other tribes before the late 1800s. One of NASTaP’s strategic goals is to identify, document and protect Native American CMTs and sacred places. Nearly 100 trees have been identified in Fox Run Park with distinguishing traits such as bark peels, bent shapes and tie-down marks, girdling and burls, split trunks, and branches. The trees were used for trail markers, burial markers, medicine, and for ceremonial purposes. Fox Run Park and the surrounding areas included in the Front Range are known campsites for the nomadic indigenous peoples for hundreds of years. NASTaP is a 501C3; for more information go to www.nastap.org or visit its booth at the Roller Coaster Trailhead on April 20 for Earth Day. Contact Membership Chair Linda Davies at ldaviesrex@gmail.com  . Photo by Heidi Wigand-Nicely. Caption by Marlene Brown.

Schwarz honored for fundraising

Above: Tamara Schwarz, executive director of Trinity Community Park in Monument (at the right in the photo), was honored with the News 5 Jefferson Award for community service on March 11. TV station KOAA anchor Dianne Derby (at the left in the photo) presented Schwarz with the award that honors those who go above and beyond in serving their neighborhood. In two years, Schwarz raised $400,000 for state-of-the-art ADA-compliant playground equipment for the park. Schwarz will now compete for the national version of the award. Photo by Karen Heater.

Rotary collects products for TLC

Above: Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club collected 855 pounds of hygiene and household products during the club’s Give the Gift of Dignity Hygiene Drive for Tri-Lakes Cares. The drive was held March 13-17. The products included soap, body wash, shampoo, dish soap, laundry soap, and multi-purpose cleaner. From left are James Russell, Laurie Beasley, Brenda Small, Cara Simmons, Jeremiah Baty, and Rich Schur. Photo courtesy of Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club.

WMMI Family Day, Mar. 23

Above: On March 23, the Western Museum of Mining & Industry (WMMI) hosted its Spring Family Day with a focus on mining. WMMI staff person Jamie Gorrell coordinated the event and said she was “very happy with the exhibitor turnout and variety of participatory options provided to visitors.” The exhibitors included the Gold Prospectors of Colorado, demonstrating different techniques to mine for gold in water, including panning and sluicing; Cool Science, with exhibits on magnetism and making your own “dippin’ dots” ice cream using liquid nitrogen; the Phoenix Gold Mine, an active gold mine in Idaho Springs operated by fourth generation miners that offers tours of the mine for visitors to see copper sulfate, pyrite, and gold veins; and Newmont Mining Corp. Kaitlyn Ragsdale, external relations supervisor with Newmont Mining, said it was an exhibitor at the event to “inform visitors of the active gold mining being done by Newmont and the benefits of gold in everyday life.” She also said Newmont appreciated the long and ongoing partnership with the museum, including collaboration on an upcoming display on open pit mining. Information on upcoming events at the museum can be found at www.wmmi.org. Photo by David Futey.

Palmer Lake Easter festivities

Above: Kids had to bundle up on a chilly, windy day to take part in Palmer Lake’s Easter festivities on March 30. Children got to hunt for eggs on the town green. Young kids were given a head start before the older children were allowed to take part. The Easter Bunny was there for photos. There were also crafts, face painting and a bake sale. The day started with a pancake breakfast fundraiser put on by the Palmer Lake Fire Association. Caption by Michael Weinfeld. Photo by Shirley Murray.

Active shooter response training

Above: There are three words to remember if you ever have the unfortunate experience of being where someone starts shooting. Run. Hide. Fight. Cpl. Joshua Marks and Community Resource Officer Kelly Fisher of the Monument Police Department told an active shooter response training class Mar. 13 that the first thing you should do is run. Leave your belongings behind and get out as soon as you can. Then, find a place to hide. And, if possible, fight the shooter by throwing things at their sensitive areas like their head, their eyes, and their groin. There’s also a helpful anagram to remember. OODA stands for Observe, Orient, Decide, and Act. Observe what’s going on, orient yourself to your surroundings, decide what to do, and then do it. The class was sponsored by the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce and the Schur Success Group. Caption by Michael Weinfeld. Photo by Laura Kronick.

Stars of Tomorrow, Mar. 17

Above: Everleigh Larsen gives her winning performance among high schoolers at Stars of Tomorrow. (38 sec)

Above: Kurt Lambrech gives his second place performance at the Stars of Tomorrow talent show. (67 sec)

Above: Rowan Vaughn gives her third place performance at the Stars of Tomorrow talent show. (69 sec)

Above: Winners among high school students are announced at the Stars of Tomorrow talent show. (61 sec)

Being different can be hard on a kid, but it’s what earned these children big prizes at the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club’s Stars of Tomorrow talent show on March 17. Palmer Ridge 10th-grader Everleigh Larsen (above left) won the top prize of a $2,000 scholarship in the high school division. She performed Claude Debussy’s freeform clarinet piece Premiere Rhapsodie, which showed off her impressive breath control. Second place went to Kurt Lambrech, (above center) a Palmer Ridge 11th-grader, who played an eclectic version of George Gershwin’s I’ve Got Rhythm on piano. He went home with a $1,000 scholarship. The third-place scholarship worth $500 went to Rowan Vaughn, (above right) a senior at Palmer Ridge High, who sang Vanilla Ice Cream from the Broadway musical She Loves Me. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Among middle-schoolers, the drum trio Monument Music Drum Corp won the top prize of $750. Bear Creek Elementary fifth-grader Gavin Barkley and two sixth-graders from Monument Academy, Gunner Skalla and Kay Gillings, alternated playing different drum sets and a set of conga drums. They were the only ones who acted like kids when they heard the results. They jumped up and down and thrust their hands in the air.  

Above: The Monument Music Drum Corp gives 1st place performance among middle schoolers at Stars of Tomorrow. (23 sec)

Above: Winners among high school students are announced at the Stars of Tomorrow talent show. (61 sec)

Above: Winners in the middle school division are announced at Stars of Tomorrow talent show. (45 sec)

The Taylor Reeves Dance Troupe came in second among middle-schoolers and went home with $500.

Above: The Taylor Reeves dance troupe gives its 2nd place performance at the Stars of Tomorrow talent show. (66 sec)

Above: Winners in the middle school division are announced at Stars of Tomorrow talent show. (45 sec)

Above left: From left, Kay Gillings, Gavin Barkley, and Gunner Skatta hold their awards. Above center: Standing from left are Greysen Stevens, Taylor Reeves, Ada M.J. Campbell, and Adeline Moats. Ashley Hedstrom is doing the split in front. Above right: Gymnast Korina Mirenda. Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

Gymnast Korina Mirenda, a third-grader from Bear Creek Elementary, won $500 for coming in first in the elementary school division.

Above: Korina Medina gives her 1st place performance among elementary students at Stars of Tomorrow. (61 sec)

Above: The elementary school winner is announced at the Stars of Tomorrow talent show. (23 sec)

Flags retired, Mar. 23

Above: Members of Boy Scout Troop 17 retired dozens of tattered or faded American flags on March 23. They were assisted by the Monument Fire Department, Monument Police Department, and the Jackson Creek Senior Living facility. Photo courtesy of BSA Troop 17.

Biggest snowstorm of the winter, March 13-16

Above: The biggest snowstorm of the winter socked Monument with more than two feet of snow from March 13-15. Travel was next to impossible at the height of the storm. Hundreds of motorists were stranded around the Monument exit off I-25. The truck stops at the exit quickly filled up. A warming center was opened at St. Peter Catholic Church. School was canceled on the 14th and 15th. In the photo, the ornamental bicycle outside the Coffee Cup Café in Monument is covered in snow. Photo by Michael Weinfeld. For more weather news see page 18.

Above: You can hear the wind howl in this video of the snowstorm in a Monument community on March 14. (11 sec)

Other Snapshots of Our Community

Snapshots of Our Community

Lions assist eyeglass project

Above: Members of the Tri-Lakes Lions Club and Knights of Sight gathered Jan. 14 to process over 60 pounds of recyclable eyeglasses donated by area residents. The glasses were sent to the Colorado Lions Eyeglass Recycling Center in Denver for further processing. Lions International vision centers will provide the glasses for free to underprivileged people around the world. Walmart Vision, America’s Best, Monument Vision, and Premier Vision helped with the project. Photo by Gordon Reichal.

Waters is Young Marine of the Year

Above: A Palmer Ridge High School junior was named Division 4 Young Marine of the Year for the second consecutive year on Dec. 28. Jackson Waters, 17, will now compete with five other division winners for the title of National Young Marine of the Year, the highest honor bestowed by the Young Marines nationally. The competition will be held March 23 in Woodbridge, Va., near the Young Marines National Headquarters. Since joining the Young Marines in 2016, Jackson has logged 850 hours of community service. Photo courtesy of the Young Marines.

TLWC CPR Training, Feb. 21

Above: Members of the Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) and their spouses got CPR training at the Woodmoor Barn on Feb. 21. The training was conducted by the Monument Fire Department and UC Health cardiac care nurses. According to the American Heart Association, 74% of cardiac arrests that occur outside of a hospital happen at home, and nearly half of those victims survive when someone performs CPR. In the photo, TLWC member Margie Klaus watches as Roger Meurer, spouse of TLWC member Laura Meurer (not pictured), practices CPR technique. Checking the monitor that gives feedback on proper CPR technique are TLWC member and organizer of the event Carol Costakis and her husband Greg. Photo by Sue Leggiero.

D38 Chess Tournament, Feb. 24

Above: There were chess boards as far as the eye could see in the gym at Bear Creek Elementary on Feb. 24 as the school hosted the 17th annual D38 chess tournament. About 130 students took part. Robert Collier was the best among high school students, and Colton Kandrak topped the middle school division. Among elementary school students, Abraham Burruel won the first-grade category, Anze Caulkins was tops among second-graders. Henry Johnson won the third-grade division. Max Lindeman came in first among fourth-graders. The fifth-grade category was won by Walter Hefter. Kyle Fieber was tops among sixth-graders and Sam Knauf won the kindergarten category. In the photo, Palmer Lake Elementary School student Tucker VanderJagt makes a move toward victory in his third-round competition. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Ice Cream for Breakfast, Feb. 24

Above: About 40 people lined up early to be among the first to eat ice cream for breakfast at Lolley’s Ice Cream in Monument on Feb. 24. Monument residents Ryan Maguire and his family were first in line at 8:40 a.m., 20 minutes before the shop opened. Maguire says they were first in line last year, too. The national event was originally scheduled for Feb. 3, but had to be postponed in Monument because of a snowstorm. Maguire says if it hadn’t been postponed, they would’ve stood in line in the snow. Customers had their choice of having their ice cream on top of waffles or mini-doughnuts. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Stars of Tomorrow auditions, Feb. 24

There was singing, gymnastics, piano and guitar playing, even clogging at the auditions for the second annual Stars of Tomorrow talent show. The auditions were held Feb. 21, 24, and 25 at “Big Red,” the D38 administration building in Monument. The Kiwanis Club of Monument Hill puts on the show that’ll take place March 17 at Palmer Ridge High School. Winners will be announced that night. The elementary school winner will earn $500, and the top middle school student will take home $750. Two scholarships worth $1,000 and $2,000 will be given to the high school winners. Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

Above: Korina Mirenda performs a gymnastics routine. (58 sec)

Korina Mirenda performed gymnastics.

Above: Evie LaBouliere and Caroline Marsh perform a gymnastics routine. (1 min 9 sec)

Evie LaBouliere and Caroline Marsh performed gymnastics.
Alyson Horne sang.
Adalae LaBouliere and Truvie Marsh performed gymnastics.

Above: Rowan Vaughn performs a song. (1 min 19 sec)

Rowan Vaughn sang.
June Vella sang and played guitar.

Above: Ashlyn Boomer sings “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.” (1 min 8 sec)

Ashlyn Boomer sang.
Henry Calvert sang.
Brianne Miller sang.

Above: William Woo plays the piano. (26 sec)

William Woo played the piano.

Above: Benton Miles sings “Cold.” (28 sec)

Benton Miles played trumpet and sang.
Blaise Klinedinst sang.
Roman Rodriguez performed a Michael Jackson dance routine.

USAFA wildfire, Feb. 25

Above: Large plumes of smoke were visible from the Tri-Lakes area on the afternoon of Feb. 25. The smoke was generated by a brush fire on steep terrain north west of West Monument Creek Road on the south side of the Air Force Academy. The fire began around 1 p.m. Wind was gusting from the west at 30-40 miles per hour throughout the day. By evening, the fire had grown to about 150 acres. Due to the fire, the base was closed to the public, pre-evacuation notices were issued for Douglass and Pine Valley housing, Douglass Valley Elementary School was closed, and Air Academy High School students switched to remote learning. A Red Flag Warning had been in effect when the fire began with higher-than-normal temperatures and wind gusts in the forecast. As of Tuesday morning, Feb. 27, at 4:30 a.m., the fire was 168 acres and 50% contained. Caption by Natalie Barszcz. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Other Snapshots of Our Community articles

Snapshots of Our Community

Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic

Above: About 1,1100 people bundled up to watch the 3rd Annual Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic on a frozen Palmer Lake on Jan. 6. The temperature was around 20 degrees when the Palmer Lake Star was lit, and fireworks brightened the dark sky to mark the start of the high school tournament. There were fire pits to warm the crowd and several food trucks offering a variety of treats. Pine Creek beat Palmer High of Colorado Springs 3-2 to take home the championship trophy. Lewis-Palmer finished third by defeating Chaparral 3-1 in the consolation final. The event proceeds covered all of Lewis-Palmer’s hockey team’s fees for the season. Photo by Michael Weinfeld

Early round at the Palmer Lake Outdoor classic (19 sec)

Fireworks at Palmer Lake Outdoor classic (16 sec)

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Color guard at Palmer Lake Outdoor classic (30 sec)

Palmer Lake’s version of the Zamboni at the Outdoor Classic (15 sec)

Ice fishing in a blizzard, Jan. 8

Above: No heat, no hut, no problem. This ice fisherman didn’t let sub-zero temperatures and wind-blown snow stop him from trying his luck on Monument Lake on Jan. 8. Of course, it didn’t stop this reporter from walking his dog, either. The Tri-Lakes area got several inches of snow. Windchills were in the double digits below zero. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Ignition-resistant gardens

Above: Waterwise landscaping and foundation plantings can also be resistant to wildfires, said Cassie Olgren, Monument’s Parks & Trails planner and program manager, to the Tri-Lakes Women’s Club Garden interest group. She described a safe, sustainable approach to landscaping to reduce the risks of homes catching fire where grassland, forests, and human development overlap and we are vulnerable to wildland fires. The keys are regular yard and vegetation maintenance; choosing the right plants, fences, and mulches; and designing your landscape to include fire breaks. See Olgren’s “Firewise Landscaping” presentation full of beautiful examples at townofmonument.org/524/Gardening-and-Landscaping-Videos-and-Cla . Visit the town’s Waterwise Garden on the northwest corner of Adams and Second Street. Olgren is searching for community groups to get involved with town gardening and the Heart of Monument Play Park projects. Contact her at colgren@tomgov.org . For information on Tri-Lakes Women’s Club activities, see trilakeswomen39sclub.wildapricot.org/ . Photo by Lisa Hatfield.

Winter storm preparedness

Above: At the Monument Hill Kiwanis meeting on Jan. 13 at the “Big Red” D 38 administration building in Monument, Lisa Hatfield, author of To Melt a Snowdrift, presented guidelines to avoid traveling in severe winter weather and ways to prepare that could help one survive if caught out. She was accompanied by Dr. Gayle Humm, who, after her military service, was part of El Paso County Search and Rescue and shared some of her experiences rescuing hikers and others stranded in severe conditions. See Emergency Preparedness Guide at epc-assets.elpasoco.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/OEM/PPROEM-Preparedness-Guide-Final-Feb2023.pdf. Photo by Steve Pate.

Robotics competition, Jan. 13

Above: Bear Creek Elementary School (BCES) hosted a FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Competition on Jan. 13. The event was organized by D38’s Bearbotics Robotics Teams and BCES in collaboration with Colorado FIRST. More than 60 volunteers helped put on the event. The competing teams were from schools and communities across the Front Range. All three Bearbotics FTC Teams, Ragnarok Team 19541, Theta Team 19970 and Sigma Team 20771 made it to the playoffs. This competition was a qualifier for teams to receive tickets to the Colorado State Championship. Teams competed in the Centerstage Robot Game that was revealed in September and were judged in areas of Inspire, Connect, Motivate, Think, Innovate, Controls, and Design. Bearbotics FTC Ragnarok Team 19541 won the Connect Award and Bearbotics FTC Theta Team 19970 won the Motivate Award. All three Bearbotics Teams will compete in their second qualifier on Feb. 10 at Severance High School in Severance, Colo. Caption by Jeanette Breton, executive director, Monumental Impact. Photo by Steve Pate.

Donkeys in Downtown, Jan. 20

Above: Jake, Tin Cup, and Louie went for a run Jan. 20 and caused many a head to turn. The donkeys were running through downtown Monument with owner Joe Polonsky and his friends Jon Roberts and Roland Brodeur. They came from the nonprofit Double Rainbow Ranch in Monument, down Second Street to the Santa Fe Trail. The animals are being trained for pack burro racing, a sport where humans race with donkeys while guiding them with a rope. From front to rear, Brodeur with Tin Cup, Polansky with Jake, and Roberts with Louie. Photo by Jeanette Lamb.

Kiwanis donates to Salvation Army

Above: Monument Hill Kiwanis Club presented a check for $36,550 to the Salvation Army on Jan. 20. The money was raised by volunteer bellringers during the holiday season. Kiwanis members and their partners, Tri-Lakes Women’s Club and Lewis-Palmer District 38 Key Club members, spent 521 volunteer hours ringing the bells at three locations in Monument. The hourly rate worked out to be three times the national average. From left, front row are Kiwanians Jeff and Heidi Baker, Mark Zeiger, Salvation Army representatives Greg Mitchell, Capt. Doug Hanson, and Tri-Lakes Women’s Club representatives Pam Perry and Shelly Pruitt. Back row are Kiwanians Rob Knoth and Mahlon Lang. Photo by Warren Gerig.

“Push-in” first MFD wildland engine

Above and below: Driver Engineer Shaun Leonhardt is positioned behind the wheel of the Monument Fire District’s first Wildland Type 3 engine, as El Paso County Commissioner Holly Williams, board directors, residents and Monument Fire District firefighters assist with the time-honored tradition of “pushing-in” the engines at the Station 1 bay on Jan. 27. The district received the Wildland Type 3 engine 541 and a replacement ambulance in December. Fire Chief Andy Kovacs said the ambulance will be placed into service in early February and engine 541 will be the first of its kind within the district. Engine 541 is designed to navigate rough terrain, hold a large capacity of water, and has pump and roll capability. The engine will be operated by the district’s dedicated wildland crews and, besides tackling local fires, could deploy to wildland fires outside the district and state. The ceremony of “pushing-in” apparatus dates back to the 1800s, when fire departments used horse-drawn steamer engines to put out fires. After fighting the fire, crews would ready the horses in the stable for the next call, but because horses will not walk backward when they are under load, crews would push the apparatus back into the narrow station bay. The time-honored tradition continues nationwide, whenever a department is lucky to receive new apparatus. Photos By Natalie Barszcz.

Sertoma donates to Home Front

Above: The Gleneagle Sertoma Club donated $10,000 to the Home Front Military Network (HFMN) at the club’s Dec. 6 meeting. The money was raised by the annual Patriot Golf Benefit Tournament on Aug. 23. HFMN Executive Director Kathleen Hatten and Development Director Jennifer Wilson say the group has had a great impact on military and veteran families in the Pikes Peak region and all across Colorado. From left, Sertomans Pete Peterson and John Coyle present the check to Hatten and Wilson. Photo by Victoria Wynn.

O’Bryant named Sertoman of the Year

Above: At the Sertoma Christmas dinner on Dec. 13, Donna O’Bryant was named Sertoman of the Year. O’Bryant has been a Sertoman for 30 years. Photo by Victoria Wynn.

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Snapshots of Our Community

Correction

In the December issue of OCN, it was stated that Jeanette Breton founded Bearbotics. “Coach” Breton is head coach of Bearbotics, FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Head Coach, and founder of Monumental Impact for Technology, Engineering & Entrepreneurship (MITEE). See monumentalimpact.org/. OCN regrets the error.

TLWC Grant process opens Jan. 15

Above: In a photo taken Oct. 1, Monument Warriors Team Coordinator Lisa Glen displays the new track uniforms and sound system purchased with a Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) 2022 grant. Eligible groups can start applying for grants from the TLWC on Jan. 15. Groups eligible to apply for grants up to $2,000 include nonprofits, public service organizations, and public schools that serve the Tri-Lakes area. The TLWC grant program focuses on smaller organizations that typically don’t have the staffing or resources to pursue grants from major granting foundations. Photo by Sue Leggiero.

Monument Tree Lighting, Dec. 2

Above and below: The wail of a fire truck siren announced the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Claus (Jeff and Sarah MacLean) Dec. 2 at Limbach Park in Monument. They hopped off the truck and were immediately surrounded by children. Shortly after their arrival, the countdown to the tree lighting began. A cheer erupted when the lights turned on. Kids lined up to give their Christmas wishes to Santa while adults took advantage of the food, drink, and entertainment throughout the park. Earlier in the evening, the crowd was serenaded with several Christmas carols by the Lewis-Palmer D38 Middle and High School Choirs. Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

Above: Crowd counts down the turning on of Christmas lights in Limbach Park. (17 sec)

Above: A fire truck carrying Mr. and Mrs. Claus arrives at Limbach Park on Dec. 2 (19 sec)

Above: Santa and Mrs. Claus greet the crowd upon arriving in Limbach Park on Dec. 2. (18 sec)

Small Town Christmas, Dec. 2

Above: Monument merchants took part in the annual Small Town Christmas event on Dec. 2 complete with music, goodies, snow, and Santa. Santa appeared around town and took time with Mrs. Claus to greet dozens of children who came to La Casa Fiesta. The Morris family, including Mom and Dad, Mary and Shawn, gathered around Santa (John Howe) and Mrs. Claus (Claudia Swenson) for a photo to put in their family album. Photo provided by the Morris family.
Above: All along the streets of Monument downtown, visitors enjoyed libations to buy and complimentary treats while buying gifts at the shops. Shown here, the Trails End Tap Room had an outdoor craft fair with the Trombone Christmas musicians. Photo by Janet Sellers.

High School Choirs, Dec. 6

Above: Choirs from Lewis-Palmer (LPHS) and Palmer Ridge (PRHS) High Schools presented a holiday concert at LPHS auditorium on Dec. 6. Madeline Smith, director, conducted choirs from both LPHS and PRHS in seasonal presentations that included Christmas, Hanukkah, and even a rendition of Robert Frost’s Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening. LPHS choirs included Treble Voices and Mixed Choir, and PRHS choirs included Chamber Singers and Women’s Ensemble. Janice Kinsley, collaborative pianist, accompanied LPHS choirs and Nancy Jacobsen, collaborative pianist, accompanied PRHS choirs. Photo by Steve Pate.

Above: The Lewis Palmer Middle and High School choirs entertain the crowd. (33 sec)

Above: The Lewis Palmer Middle and High School choirs sing Christmas carols at Limbach Park. (28 sec)

Above: The Lewis Palmer Middle and High School choirs entertain the crowd before the lights are turned on. (33 sec)

Arkenstone at TLCA, Dec. 9

Above: On Dec. 9, a capacity audience at the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) ushered in the holiday season as they spent the evening listening to A Winter’s Eve with David Arkenstone & Friends. Arkenstone, a five-time Grammy nominee, was accompanied by virtuoso musicians Josh Gilgoff (percussion), Laurann Angel (violin), Emily Elkin (cello), and Kimberly Zaleski (flute), with candles lining the stage for a festive atmosphere. They performed songs from Arkenstone’s albums Christmas Lounge, Celtic Christmas, and his latest album Winterlude, applying genres including Celtic, new age, neo-classical, and world museum to the songs that emphasized the extent of their musical talents. The song list included I Saw Three Ships, Deck the Halls, Ice Palace—a song inspired by a story told by his grandmother—Tchaikovsky’s Arabian Dance from the Nutcracker ballet, and Warm Lights Flicker Across the Lake. Photo by David Futey.

Career and Technical Ed at LPMS

Above: On Dec. 11, Lewis-Palmer Middle School hosted a Career and Technical Education (CTE) showcase with projects, teachers, and students in its cafetorium. LPMS offers Gateway to Technology, Robotics, Web Design, CAD Design and 3D Printing, and Yearbook as well as Health Science (Medical Detective and Forensic Science). In the photo is Sean Sanger, 7th Gateway to Technology teacher in the CTE Department. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

For more information about D38’s CTE program, see lewispalmer.org/page/career-technical-education.

TL Dynamic Rotary distributes coats

Above: The Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary handed out more than 350 new winter coats to Tri-Lakes Cares clients as part of its second annual Warm Hugs new coat drive. Coats were distributed on Dec. 11 and 14. As one recipient said, “[There’s] something about having a new coat that can’t be duplicated.” The coats were collected at donation boxes at local businesses around Monument as well as at a coat and cash donation day Dec. 2. In photo are, from left, Rotary members Jeremiah Baty, Alisha Baty, Shannon Schurr, Soul Santa (Terrance Beasley), Rotary Community Service Director Laurie Beasley, Katie Lenger, Brenda Small, and Nicole Schoolsky at the coat distribution event at Tri-Lakes Cares. Photo by Julie Keim.

AARP elects officers, Dec. 13

Above: AARP Chapter 1100 Black Forest elected officers for 2024 at its meeting Dec.13. Roy Rozak was elected president, Stan Beckner, vice president, Jim Belk, treasurer, and Lin Rozak, secretary. A Board of Directors was also voted on. After the vote, members enjoyed a catered buffet dinner. Photo by Stan Beckner.

Friends of Fox Run Park, Dec. 17

Above: Friends of Fox Run Park, the volunteer organization that helps with tasks and education at Fox Run Regional Park, held its annual holiday “celebrating community” event on Dec. 17 at the warming hut near the twin ponds. Visitors and hikers at the park enjoyed hot cocoa, roasted marshmallows, and s’mores as well as making wooden ornaments from the park’s fallen pine branches. Representatives from the Native American Sacred Trees and Places were also on hand to share local history and knowledge of the special significance and historic cultural traditions unique to the park. The Friends of Fox Run Park is accepting volunteers of all ages for upcoming seasonal opportunities with park tasks and trails, which include forest education and conservation, and can be contacted at FriendsOfFoxRunPark@gmail.com. Photo by Janet Sellers.

TLMA holiday concert, Dec. 15-17

Above: On the weekend of Dec. 15-17, the Tri-Lakes Music Association offered its annual holiday music program at the Palmer Ridge High School auditorium. The evenings featured special performances from its orchestra, brass instruments, strings, piano works and vocals of solos, duets, and full choral works sharing holiday favorites and innovative pieces. Donations were accepted on behalf of Tri-Lakes Cares and the Music Association, both of which are nonprofit volunteer organizations for community benefit and enrichment. Photo by Janet Sellers.

100 million+ view gender reveal

Above: Monument residents Micah and Kya Jeub released a live video revealing the gender of their third child—during an ice bath. Pink paint shot through their bath to reveal a girl is on her way. Their video went viral on TikTok, YouTube, and other social media platforms, garnishing over 100 million views. Photo by Chris Jeub, Grandpa, who attended the reveal.

Holiday Season in Palmer Lake

Above: Palmer Lake welcomes you to “Believe” and brightens your holiday season with the Palmer Lake Star.
Photo by David Futey.

Other Snapshots of Our Community

Snapshots of Our Community – Tri-Lakes helping those in need

Above: John Howe, in his signature Hawaiian shirt, could not help but smile as he rang the bell while smiling crowds approached Safeway for Thanksgiving groceries. Some commented that it was too early for “Merry Christmas,” so John changed to “Happy Thanksgiving” and the response was likewise. As in previous years, the Tri-Lakes community was generous as the Red Kettle was quickly filled each day. The funds raised stay in the community in which they were donated and are used to support local Salvation Army programs for people in need. Caption by John Howe. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

John Adams at TLCA, Oct. 28

Above: On Oct. 28, John Adams brought his John Denver Tribute concert to the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) stage. Adams, performing solo this day, is a perennial favorite at the TLCA, having performed there over a dozen times throughout the years. Starting the concert with Rocky Mountain High, Adams proceeded through Denver’s well-known and lesser-known songs. The song list included Ain’t It Good to be Back Home Again, Sunshine on My Shoulders, Grandma’s Feather Bed, Rhyme and Reason, and Fly Away. As Adams switched between playing 6 and 12 string guitars during the evening, the audience contributed vocal support to many of the songs, creating an engaging and entertaining atmosphere for all. Information on upcoming events at the TLCA is at www.trilakesarts.org. Photo by David Futey.

AARP donates to PPLD

Above: Black Forest AARP Chapter 1100 awarded a grant of $905.85 to the Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) on Oct. 31. The district will use the money to provide six active-motion stools with 12-inch-high seats and three ADA-compliant desks for wheelchair access. The adaptive furniture for children will be used by the three largest libraries in the district. From left are Lance James, chief development officer for the Pikes Peak Library District, and Candace Lehmann, president of AARP Chapter 1100. Photo by Stan Beckner.

Black Forest Arts & Crafts Fall Show

Above: The 59th Annual Black Forest Arts & Crafts Guild (BFACG) held its Fall Show at the Black Forest Community Center on Nov. 1-5. The BFACG is the longest, continuously running Craft Guild West of the Mississippi River. The Spring and Fall Craft Shows raise money for its scholarship fund. The BFACG annually awards a graduating senior attending high school within the Black Forest area. For more information, go to www.bfacg.org/scholarships. Photo by Marlene Brown.

Bearbotics teams win, Nov. 11

Above: School District D38’s Bearbotics team, Hampterlotols, (in photo) won the Champion Award at the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Lego League Challenge on Nov. 11 in Fountain. The robotics team of Lewis-Palmer Middle School (LPMS) students earned a Golden Ticket to the state championship in Denver on Dec. 9.
Above: The LPMS Sour Patch Robots won first place in the Robot Design category, also earning a Golden Ticket to the state championship.
Above: The Oversized Elmos team made up of Bear Creek Elementary School (BCES) students came in second place in robot performance.
Above: The Gladiators from BCES won second place in robot design. The teams were coached by Vicki Nalley and Noreen Griffin. Emma Beery, Keira Griffin, Keith Flesher, Susie Beery, and Rob Lambrech were mentors. Photos by Ben Griffin.

Kiwanis Club Harvest of Love

Above: As part of The Harvest of Love, Monument Hill Kiwanis Club picked up 11,535 pounds of food at schools in District 38 and delivered it to Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) on Nov. 1 and 3. TLC filled holiday food bags with turkeys or hams, stuffed animals, and loaves of bread baked by the Girl Scouts. They started delivering them last month and are continuing this month. Harvest of Love is a program conducted and coordinated by Kiwanis Service Leadership student clubs, school student councils, and other school organizations at individual schools. In photo, Kiwanian Jim Murphy sorts canned goods being delivered to volunteers who store it for distribution. Photo by Bob Harrigan.

Empty Bowls benefits TLC

The Empty Bowls event earned nearly $9,000 for Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC). From left, on Nov. 11, Monument Hill Kiwanis Club President Scott Ross presented a check for $8,580.59 from net proceeds of ticket sales to Haley Chapin, TLC executive director, Christine Bucher, TLC special events coordinator, and Dave Bailey, Kiwanis project manager for Empty Bowls. Photo by Warren Gerig.

Gobble Squabble, Nov. 18

Above and below: The third annual Monumental Impact for Technology, Engineering and Entrepreneurship (MITEE), the business arm to Bearbotics, was held at Grace Best Elementary School on Nov. 18. The Gobble Squabble competition included First Technology Challenge (FTC), First Robotics Challenge (FRC), advanced categories, and instruction on how to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create art. Jeanette Breton, who founded the Bearbotics program in D38 and organized the volunteers for this event, said 11 teams with five to eight participants each competed in various categories including “Battle bots” in “cage-fighting,” and the FRC competition in which robots picked up and moved hexagonal pieces (“pixels”) in timed events. This competition included local high school and middle school students, students and adults from Denver and other schools in Colorado, including a senior from Colorado School of Mines in Golden. Winners will advance to regional competition and possibly to national competition. Photos by Steve Pate.

Tri-Lakes Women’s Club Holiday Joy fundraiser, Nov. 17-18

Above: The Tri-Lakes Women’s Club held its annual Holiday Joy home tour on Nov. 17-18. Participants bought tickets for the fundraiser and enjoyed five homes to visit, with a key home designer at each property. It was a fun way to raise funds for local nonprofits and showcase the holiday décor. Much of the décor is available through the designers’ studios or local shops. Co-chairs of the annual event were Jill Markworth and Gail Wittman, with many members volunteering at the homes and behind the scenes to make the event a delightful start for the holiday season. It is the main fundraiser of the year for the club, which raised over $24,000 in 2022 for their grants to local nonprofits in the Tri-Lakes area.
Above: One venue even had Santa riding to the home. Photos by Janet Sellers.

Chamber Non-Profit Night, Nov. 21

Above: The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce hosted the Business After Hours/Non-Profit Night at the Tri-Lakes YMCA on Nov. 21. Local nonprofit organizations set up displays to inform guests of their missions and how volunteers might contribute. Exhibitors included Tri-Lakes Kiwanis, Bearbotics, Palmer Lake Historical Society, Tri-Lakes Cares, the Gleneagle Sertoma Club, Silver Key, and others. If you are interested in contributing to these or other local organizations as a volunteer, they would be happy to hear from you. You may contact the Tri-Lakes Chamber website for a list of exhibitors at the event: https://www.trilakeschamber.com/contact.html. Photo by Steve Pate.

Flags retired, Nov. 11

On Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11, U. S. Flags were properly “retired” by Scout Troop 17 at Jackson Creek Senior Living (JCSL). The ceremony for worn flags was requested by Laura Hale, Sales director for JCSL who worked with Mike Saber, Scout leader, to organize the event. The ceremony involves properly handling flags and preparing them for burning. Prior to the ceremony, Scouts built a fire pit on the south lawn of JCSL and will cover the area for future ceremonies. Scott Mitchell took over Scoutmaster duties from Frank DeLalla this year and said that Scouts also placed flags on veteran’s gravestones at the Monument cemetery earlier the morning of Nov. 11 and will remove them Nov. 12. Mike Saber, led a preliminary ceremony inside JCSL and explained to the residents and others in attendance how the process works. He began by quoting a speech by President Harry S Truman and was followed by Scouts Charlie Bucheit and Colin Saber and Cub Scout Luke Stoctenberg. Several residents at JCSL are veterans. Many flags were collected from sites in the Tri-Lakes area, including the Monument Police Department, Fire Station No. 1, and the Palmer Lake library. If you have a worn flag and wish to have it properly retired, you may drop it off at these and other area locations. Representatives of the Monument Police and Fire Departments were present.

Above: Scouts introduced the US flag retirement process to residents of JCSL. They are pictured with one of the flags to be retired. Above: Scouts from Troop 17 conduct proper US flag retirement ceremony. Photos by Steve Pate.
Above: Scouts from Troop 17 conduct proper US flag retirement ceremony. Photos by Steve Pate.

Local authors sign books, Nov. 25

Above and below: Local authors Diane Sawatzki (above) and Lisa Hatfield (below) were at Covered Treasures Bookstore in Monument on Nov. 25 to sign copies of their latest publications. Hatfield just released her second novel, To Melt a Snowdrift, which addresses preparation for surviving when stranded in blizzard conditions along with family stresses in such a situation. She also wrote To Starve an Ember that deals with wildfire mitigation and preparation. Sawatzki signed her latest book in the Once Upon Another Time trilogy, The Land of Now. Her previous novels are Once Upon Another Time and Manyhorses Traveling. The three novels involve time travel that goes back as far as 1863. All these books are available at Covered Treasures. Photos by Steve Pate..

Above: Lisa Hatfield says her new book helps people prepare for natural disasters (18 sec)

Above: Lisa Hatfield says her new book in the 2nd in a series. (30 sec)

Scouts placed flags for veterans on Veterans Day, Nov. 11

Scouts from local Troop 17 placed flags on veterans’ headstones at the Monument cemetery on Veterans Day, Nov 11. According to Scout leader Mike Saber, the flags were placed early on Veterans Day and were removed the next day, Nov. 12. Photo by Steve Pate.

Other Snapshots of Our Community articles

Snapshots of Our Community

October Issue Snapshot Correction: Mary Burnett (not Barrett) Brown is the author of The Book of Divine Love. OCN regrets the error.

TLWC help Creek Week, Sep. 30

Above: Tri-Lakes Women’s Club members participated in the 10th Annual Creek Week Cleanup on Sept. 30. Creek Week is the largest watershed-wide cleanup in the state, enlisting volunteers to pick up litter along creeks, trails, parks, and open spaces along the Fountain Creek Watershed. Armed with prongs to assist with trash pickup, the ladies were able to fill 15 bags of trash. Photo by Maureen Morgan.

Teacher wins$50,000 prize, Oct. 3

Above: A local teacher has won a $50,000 prize from Harbor Freight Tools. Andrew Vrieze teaches Industrial Design and Construction at Lewis-Palmer High School. He was given the Prize for Teaching Excellence on Oct. 3. The award is split between the school and Vrieze. He gets $15,000, the school gets $35,000. A total of $1.5 million was awarded to 25 public high school skilled trades teachers and their programs across the United States. Vrieze is one of only three winners from Colorado. Vrieze says, “Every student should have a chance to learn the trades.” He continued, “The classes I teach help these individuals feel connected, have a voice in the school, and strength to help them in the future.” Photo courtesy of Lewis-Palmer High School.

Empty Bowls raises over $10,000

Above: From left, Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway, Assistant Superintendent Amber Whetstine, and board Treasurer Ron Schwarz serve soup to the 2023 Empty Bowls and Silent Auction attendees in the Lewis-Palmer High School Cafeteria on Oct. 4. The annual event is organized and staffed by the Kiwanis Club of Monument Hill with all proceeds benefiting Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC). Donations from businesses and restaurants, ceramic bowl artisans, and students make this event possible every year. Hundreds of people attended, raising over $10,000 for TLC. TLC is a community-based, volunteer-supported resource center whose purpose is to improve people’s lives through emergency and self-sufficiency programs. It operates the only food pantry in Northern El Paso County and relies on donations to operate. For more information, visit www.tri-lakescares.org or 719-481-4864 and www.monumenthillkiwanis.org or 719-488-2327. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Station 4 Open House, Oct. 7

Above: From left, Sparky the Fire Dog and Violet, Andelyn, and Sawyer Hyatt visit the Cooking Safety information display during Monument Fire District’s Meet the Firefighters open house event at Station 4 on Oct. 7. Sparky says cooking safety starts with you! For more fire safety information, and fire safety fun for the whole family, visit www.sparkyschoolhouse.org and www.sparky.org. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.

Pumpkin give-away, Oct. 14

Above: From left at rear, Firefighter/Paramedic Jon Bauer, firefighter Andrew Robinson, Lt. Curt Leonhardt, Dianna Goodfellow, Engineer Keegan Black, Julie Black, Battalion Chief Janaka Branden, Lt. Jon Urban, Engineer Golden Rains, Paramedic John Hoeh, Lt. Steve Buckner, Battalion Chief Shannon Balvanz, Carolyn Leonhardt, Sparky the Dog, Isaac, Caleb and Riley Black at the Sixth Annual Monument Local 4319 Pumpkin Giveaway at Monument Marketplace on Oct. 14. Dianna Goodfellow of Mutual Security Mortgage Ltd., an Erie resident, organizes and sponsors the free event, traveling to Cooksey Farms in Roggen with a few firefighters and their families to hand cut and gather the donated pumpkins. The group delivered 777 pumpkins to the Monument Marketplace Clocktower, and with the help of other Local 4319 members, the pumpkins were positioned for the event. Attendees experienced a live performance from local country artist Colton Hittle and voted for their favorite carved/decorated pumpkin in the Third Annual Monument Fire District firefighter pumpkin decorating competition. About 888 pounds of canned food donations were collected for the Tri-Lakes Cares food pantry. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.
Above: The volunteer group at Cooksey Farms, Roggen, is, from left, Firefighter Jaylon Koehn, Engineer Keegan Black, Julie Black, Firefighter/Paramedic Nathan Boyce, McKinley Thorpe, Dianna Goodfellow, rear from left, Caleb, Riley, and Isaac Black. Photo by Engineer Jody Thorpe.

PLAG small works show, Oct. 6

Above: Palmer Lake Art Group celebrated its annual small works show opening at Bella Art and Frame gallery on Oct. 6. Members of the club are shown near their paintings with first-place winner Mark Dixon at the far right. Artworks are up and for sale through November. Sold work will be replaced by the artists with new work, so the show will be full and renewed with artworks throughout the exhibition and sale. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Romance at the Chautauqua, Oct. 6

Above: Palmer Lake arts district presented playwright Richard Sebastian-Coleman at the premier of the play Romance at the Chautauqua on the weekend of Oct. 6 at Palmer Lake Town Hall. Centered on the town of Palmer Lake, the story moved forward in a creative way to include the town’s history and famous people, including Lucretia Vaile and Gen. William Jackson Palmer. True to the melodrama genre, the audience was encouraged to engage in making specific sounds for each actor such as boos, woos, and cheers. After the melodrama ended, the crowd was treated to a contemporary musical medley by the actors that included dancing, songs, and chorus, and the audience participated in these songs as well by singing, whistling along, and more. Up next will be The Stinky Cheese Man & Other Fairly Stupid Tales coming to Palmer Lake on Nov. 11. For tickets, see www.funkylittletheater.org. Photo by Janet Sellers.

AARP honors pastor, president

Black Forest Lutheran Church Pastor Ken Hohag and AARP Chapter 1100 President Candace Lehmann were honored Oct. 11 at the chapter meeting in Black Forest. Holhag was given the Colorado Outstanding Community Partner Award for 2023 and Lehmann got the Outstanding Volunteer Service Award. The honors were presented by Colorado AARP President Greg Glischinski and Jeremiah Mora, state and community engagement manager for AARP Colorado. During the business meeting that followed, plans were finalized for participating in the Oct. 21 Senior Life Expo in Colorado Springs.

Above: From left are Hohag, Mora, and Glischinski
Above: From left are Glischinsk, Lehmann, and Mora. Photos by Stan Beckner.

Trinity Community Park opens

Above: After 13 new pieces of state-of-the-art accessible playground equipment were installed, along with a shock-absorbing surface to make it easier for wheelchairs, strollers, and walkers to get around, Trinity Community Park opened to the public in Monument on Oct. 14. The new equipment also included a wheelchair trampoline and a wheelchair merry-go-round. More than 70 volunteers from Trinity Lutheran Church and the Monument and Colorado Springs communities helped. This is the largest and most advanced American Disabilities Act-compliant park within 40 miles. While much of the equipment is specifically designed for those with special needs, everyone is welcome regardless of ability. Next spring, a pavilion and additional signs and landscaping will be added. Most of the work will be paid for by corporate sponsors and grants. In the photo, Brad Gann and his special-needs daughter Siobhan explore the motion of the wheelchair trampoline. Photo by Sharon Gann

Awake the Lake 0.5K, Oct. 15

Above: About 900 humans and 60 dogs signed up for the ninth annual 0.5K “Race” at Palmer Lake on Oct. 15. As usual, donuts for humans and tennis balls and treats for dogs were provided at the halfway point and a beer or soft drink could be had after crossing the finish line. Prizes were awarded for the best costumes. Money raised at the event by Awake the Lake helps pay for park beautification, landscaping, fireworks on the Fourth of July, holiday lighting, and helping keep water in the lake. Photo by Steve Pate.

Burns receives award, Oct. 17

Above: St. Peter Catholic School Office Administrator and Director Carol Burns received the Hometown Hero award on Oct. 17. Burns received the award in recognition of her accomplishments and contributions to the St. Peter and Monument communities. The award was presented by Modern Woodmen of America representative Luke Rawlings. From left are Superintendent of Catholic Education for the diocese of Colorado Springs Sheila Whalen, Rawlings, Burns, and school Principal Debbie Brook. Photo courtesy of Robin Sheehan.

Business Expo, Oct. 18

Above: The 2023 Community and Business Expo sponsored by the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce and the YMCA was held Oct. 18 at the YMCA with nearly 45 businesses showcased. The free event drew more than 300 attendees. Businesses included services, products, and local nonprofits. For more information for events presented by the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce, visit www.trilakeschamber.com. Photo by Marlene Brown.

TLWC get CPR training, Oct. 18

Above: Nearly two dozen members of Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) took CPR training on Oct. 18. The training held at Monument Fire Department (MFD) Station 1 gave the women a chance to experience CPR but was not for certification. Trainers came from University of Colorado Health’s RN Cardiac Care Coordinators as well as EMS technicians and firefighters from the Monument Fire District. In the photo, Lt. John Bodinsky instructs TLWC member Gail Wittman on how to use a device connected to the CPR dummy that gives feedback on the correct speed and depth to treat a victim. Photo by Sue Leggiero.

Black Forest Trails Association board

Above: The Black Forest Trails Association (BRTA) held its annual membership meeting Oct. 16 at the Black Forest Community Center. Members voted for their new board. Pictured from left, standing, are Cimarron Hatch (secretary), Gordon Limb (board), Karen Popham (board), John Wallace (president), and Gary Sherwood (board). Seated from left are Cheryl Pixley (vice president) and Nancy Reinhardt (board). Board members not present are Alex Nguyen (treasurer) and Jack Yonce (board). BFTA is a nonprofit organization that works with El Paso County to connect Black Forest neighborhoods with the county Trail System for non-motorized use. BFTA’s next meeting will be Nov. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at Black Forest Community Hall. For more information, go to www.blackforesttrails,org. Caption by Marlene Brown. Photo by Judith von Ahlefeldt.

100+ Women Who Care, Oct. 18

Above: On Oct. 18, 100+ Women Who Care of Tri-Lakes gathered at the Woodmoor Barn to hear from three nominees for its bi-annual grant. The nominees include Tri-Lakes Cares, a community resource center; Trinity Community Park, an accessible park; and Hilltop Ranch, a residential community for adults with disabilities. Hilltop Ranch, in Palmer Lake, provides a living community for adults with disabilities as well as weekend respite care. More information can be found at www. hilltopranch.org. Monument Warriors provided refreshments and talked about supporting their Special Olympics athletes with the grant they received in April. Cathy Wilcox, pictured, addressed the members of 100+ Women Who Care Tri-Lakes, who each contribute $100 two times a year to local Tri-Lakes nonprofits. For information, contact https://www.100womenwhocaretrilakes.com/join-us/. Find more information about Tri-Lakes Cares at www.tri-lakescares.org;; and Trinity Community Park at www.trinitymonument.org/trinity-community-park. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Holz Hausen in Palmer Lake

Above and below: All Pat Duffy wanted to find was a faster method of drying firewood for his wood stove. He ended up with a work of art. Duffy’s research turned up the German method of stacking wood called Holz Hausen. The wood is stacked in a circular shape that supports itself on the outside, allowing him to fill the inside with more wood. This speeds the drying process. He got the wood by cutting down nearly 40 pine trees, each as high as 65 feet, in Douglas County. Building his Holz Hausen was a learning curve. The first one fell down. But he got the hang of it, and now he has four stacks in his yard in Palmer Lake. The largest stack is 9 feet tall and 10 feet wide and contains 6.5 cords of wood. Functional and, he says, “It looks really cool.” Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

Black Forest Backyard Market

Above: The Black Forest Backyard Market continued what is considered a very successful season on Oct. 21. The market, on the corner of Black Forest and Shoup Roads, featured local farmers, a kids’ corner, and young entrepreneurs. Products included jewelry, soaps, mushrooms, vegetables, and baked goods. Each booth’s offerings were locally produced and grown. Pictured are the managers of the market for the last four years. As the season ends on Oct. 28, they are ramping up for the winter market. For more information, go to www.thebackyardmarkets.com/holiday-markets. Photo by Marlene Brown.

WMMI Miners’ Pumpkin Patch

Above: The Western Museum of Mining & Industry (WMMI) held its annual Miners’ Pumpkin Patch on Saturdays throughout October. Attendees could choose from a multitude of activities. Gold panning, outdoor games, hayrides, riding a soap box derby car, watching the operation of a variety of museum equipment, indoor museum tours and, of course, picking out a special pumpkin or two for Halloween and catapulting one were among the activities. On Oct. 21, WMMI Executive Director Gant Dewey said, “It’s a perfect fall day, visitors are enjoying the pumpkin patch, and the running of the museum’s equipment really makes this a unique experience.” Over 4,000 visitors attended the Pumpkin Patch through the first three Saturdays. Photo by David Futey.

Snowy Halloween?

Above: I’m dreaming of a white … Halloween? People in the Tri-Lakes area woke up to several inches of snow on Oct. 29. The snow gave beards or hats to ghosts and goblins. Lucky for trick-or-treaters, the weather was forecast to be in the 40s on All Hallows Eve. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Colorado Kids Ranch Pumpkin Patch

Above: After working with the El Paso Board of County Commissioners to increase its parking, the Colorado Kids Ranch presented Colorado Pumpkin Patch again this year. Families from Denver to Colorado Springs came to enjoy an afternoon of fun for everyone on Oct. 21. The fun included tractor hayrides, huge bouncy pillows, tube swings, and pumpkins. The family farm operates a non-profit 501c3 Johnny Pumpkinseed that offers free admission and free pumpkins to families in-need and children of special needs. For more information on year-round events, go to https://coloradokidsranch.com/activities. Photo by Marlene Brown.

MA boys cross country wins title

Above: Monument Academy Middle School’s boys cross country team are the champs. They won the state title at the Colorado State Middle School Cross Country Meet at Fehringer Ranch Park in Denver on Oct. 21. They competed as a small 1a/2a school in the Blue Division against 4a/5a schools across the state. The boys team went undefeated this season and the full team of 49 kids won their league championship for both the boys and girls teams. From left are Preston Hall, Isaac Hawkins, Lukas Sturgeon, Ben Olds, Axel Mason, Tegegn Hall, and George Paulson. Photo by Patrick Hall.

Ascent Church Trunk or Treat

Above: At the Ascent Church parking lot, the trunk or treat event included a pirate ship complete with kids walking the plank to get their treats. Some celebrants shared candies and fun wearing ‘90s vintage attire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Trunk or treat is a fun and safe fall celebration. Many local churches and organizations offer it. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Other Snapshots of Our Community

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

Snapshots of Our Community

August Issue Snapshot Correction: The Monument Sanitation District was founded in 1963 and is celebrating its 60th anniversary.

Construction causes dangerous traffic backups

Above: Aug. 15, the first day of school for all D38 schools, showed significant traffic backups by many schools due to several construction projects, including the Highway 105 and Jackson Creek Parkway expansions, along with other road projects by the county and special districts. At 3:30 p.m., the line of cars heading west on Highway 105 for the Monument Academy pickup was 45 cars long, with at least an equal number heading east on Vista Ridge Point to the front of the school. Cars were also backed up heading east on Highway 105 from the I-25 offramp, heading north on Knollwood Drive to MA, south on Woodmoor Drive past Lewis-Palmer Middle School, and Jackson Creek Parkway and Higby Road near Lewis-Palmer High School. While carlines are always challenging in the first weeks of school due to new routes and new parents, the construction added to the chaos. Cars were stuck at lights for multiple cycles due to cars blocking intersections. Some bus drivers deviated from their normal routes to avoid the worst traffic. By the second day, the district had adjusted some bus routes, and the Monument Police Department had deployed some officers to help direct traffic at the busiest intersections. The county Department of Public Works is considering opening an additional road to help with the traffic situation. Please be careful on our roads and look out for students and other drivers. For more information, see http://EPC-Hwy105AConstruction.com/ and http://www.jacksoncreekpkway.com, as well as your school’s website for carline procedures and bus routes. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Hummingbird Festival, Aug. 4-5

Above: The annual Hummingbird Festival was held in a rustic setting off Roller Coaster Road in Monument on Aug. 4 and 5. Festival visitors could learn about hummingbirds, nature, and art. Vendor stands offered food, books related to Native American culture, alpacas, and others. A Monument fire truck displayed items related to fire and rescue. The festival is organized each year by Marlene Brown, Janet Sellers, and other local community leaders. Photo by Steve Pate.

Cemetery records updated, Aug. 7

Above: It was expected the project would take a few months. Instead, it took 13 years. On Aug. 7, the Monument Town Council heard a presentation from two Monument volunteers who updated the town’s cemetery records. John Howe started the project in 2010. He was joined by Michael Weinfeld in 2018. They told the council how they used handwritten ledgers with information taken from family Bibles, minutes from various cemetery committees, and maps including one based on ground-penetrating radar which turned up many of the cemetery’s 186 unknown graves. Howe and Weinfeld also made dozens of trips to the cemetery to photograph gravestones. They also used a pointed probe to uncover some markers that had sunk beneath the surface. If they heard a “thunk,” they knew they’d hit a tombstone. The oldest marked grave is Alonzo Welty’s. He was buried in 1860, 26 years before the cemetery was officially created. In all, there are 1,692 lots. All are spoken for. The cemetery sold out in April 2021. Howe and Weinfeld’s findings are in a 73-page report called “A Loose History of Monument Cemetery.” It can be found online in the packet for the Aug. 7 Town Council meeting at monumenttownco.documents-on-demand.com. Photo by Steve Pate. Inset photo by Tia M. Mayer.

AARP at the Black Forest Festival

Above: Members of Chapter 1100 of AARP in Black Forest provided pastries and cold water to people who attended the annual Black Forest Festival on Aug. 11. They also helped with the breakfast prepared by area Scouts. Chapter member Ray Rozak hooked up his tractor to a trailer and provided free hayrides. From left are Electa Beckner, Lin Rozak, Candace Lehmann, Bonnie Kittel, Ray Rozak, and Max Stucky. Photo by Stan Beckner.

National Night Out, Aug. 5

Above: A crowd of about 200 gathered for the annual National Neighborhood Night Out event on Aug. 5 at the Little Train Park in Promontory Pointe. The Homeowners Association board members hosted the picnic to thank first responders for providing a safe neighborhood. Participants were treated to Broken Bones BBQ, Lori Lynn’s Cookies and Cream treats, a live performance by Nick Davey, a bounce castle, and interaction with officers and staff from Monument Police Department, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, and Monument Fire District Station 4. Pictured from left are Monument Police Department Cpl. R. Hoeh with Will Beatty, Melody Dixon, and Eva Beatty atop a Monument Police Department cruiser. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.

AI art show, Aug. 11

Above: An exhibit featuring art created with artificial intelligence by students was on display at the Western Museum of Mining and Industry last month. The opening and a lecture were held on Aug. 11. All proceeds from the sale of the prints go to Monumental Impact, which enables and supports the growing talent and passion of high school students in technology, engineering, and entrepreneurship. The exhibit was a collaboration between the Palmer Lake Arts Council and Monumental Impact. It was made possible by a grant from CORE Electric Cooperative and was supervised by Dr. Kent Hutson. Pictured in the inset From left are Gavin Schmidt and Alex Epstein framing a print in preparation for the art exhibit. Photos by Dr. Kent Hutson.

Art Hop, Aug. 17

Above: The Art Hop was bustling in downtown Monument on Aug. 17 as artists demonstrated their art and offered finished pieces for sale. Artist Janet Sellers demonstrated watercolor at Bella Art and Frame, and there were outside booths of various artists. The last Art Hop of the 2023 season will be at 5 to 8 p.m. Sept. 21, free and open to the public. https://tri.lakes.chamberofcommerce.me/Calendar/moreinfo.php?eventid=454703. See more info at #downtownmonument. Photo by Marlene Brown.

Annual peach sale pick-up, Aug. 12

Above: Monument Hill Kiwanis members and volunteers distribute about 1,065 peaches to about 750 customers’ vehicles at the Bear Creek Elementary School parking lot on Aug. 12. Dean Snow heralded about 40 volunteers to ensure the four-hour event ran smoothly, and Dan Lopez fed the crew with a barbecue picnic. All proceeds from the Annual Peach Sale are returned to the community through projects supported by the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club. For more information, visit https://MHKiwanis.org. Pictured from left: Joe Kneedler, Scott Ross, Paul Zmuda and Ted Bauman carry peaches to customers. Photo by Kiwanis member Warren Gerig.

WMMI Family Day, Aug. 12

Above: On Aug. 12, the Western Museum of Mining & Industry (WMMI) held its last of four family day events with this one focused on history. The museum staff offered hayrides and blacksmith demonstrations and operated several of its historic equipment including the EIMCO 630 rocker mucker. Visitors could also ride a soapbox racer provided by Pikes Peak Soap Box Derby. The Tenth Mountain Division-Living History Display Group Inc. had re-enactors in uniform representing different World War II combatants along with armament from pistols to machine guns. Information on upcoming WMMI events is at www.wmmi.org. Pictured: WMMI Family Day visitor Dillon Lott drove a Soap Box Derby racer. Photo by David Futey.

Fox Run Park concert, Aug. 24

Above: A beautiful summer evening was filled with the music of Colorado’s own jazz band Dotsero (dotseroband.com) on Aug. 24 at Fox Run Regional Park, presented by El Paso County Recreation & Cultural Services. Concerts in the Park happen every Thursday through Sept. 7 at 6-8 p.m.. Scheduled to perform Sept. 7 is Wirewood Station. All concerts are free. For more information, see https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/2023-el-paso-county-concerts-in-the-park/. Photo by Marlene Brown.

Monument water tank, Aug. 21

Above: During the week of Monday, Aug. 21, painting was finished on the Town of Monument’s (TOM) 2-million-gallon water storage tank. The tank construction site is located in residential Forest View Estates where all household properties are supplied by individual water wells separate from the TOM water system. During September, the excavation contractor will return soil initially excavated and stored off-site for backfill around the newly established tank. Backfill soil levels will reach within 3-4 feet of the top of the tank wall on the back side and will allow 13 feet of tank wall exposure on the roadside facade. Trenching and laying of the pipeline to provide water flow to and from the storage tank to downtown Monument continues along Highway 105. Photo by Max Williams.

Dusky Grouse sighted, Aug. 20

Above: On one of his many hikes in the Mount Herman area, Randy Phillips was able to take this photo of a dusky grouse. His comment was, “Mount Herman is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get. Several dusky grouse rudely walked in front of me.” Phillips got this closeup on Aug. 20. Photo by Randy Phillips

Local labyrinth available

Above: A local couple has created a labyrinth in their yard that’s been recognized by The Labyrinth Society, a worldwide organization dedicated to the preservation and education about the history of labyrinths. Bob and Jerusha Goebel built the labyrinth in Cherry Creek Crossing in 2009. The labyrinth is open to the public and is located at 3215 Doubletree Court. Photo by Mike Pipkins.

Other Snapshots of Our Community

Snapshots of Our Community

WMMI Family Days, July 15 and Aug. 12

Neighborhood Watch, Jun. 29

Above: Brent Ambuehl, coordinator of Crime Prevention for the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, presented an informal report to about 45 people on how to protect against various types of criminal activity at a Neighborhood Watch event on June 29 at Wesley Owens Coffee & Café. Actions by residents can reduce risk of home and vehicle break-ins, including signage indicating your home is protected with a security system and/or cameras, exterior lighting, locking all doors including the entrance from your attached garage to the house, not leaving garage door openers on the visor of your vehicle parked outdoors, etc. We’ve all heard the admonition to lock your vehicle and don’t leave valuables visible from outside your vehicle. Ambuehl once conducted a test at a local trailhead and found 14 cars unlocked. For useful information, see www.EPCSheriffsOffice.com, including how to file non-emergency crime reports online. Photo by Steve Pate.

Stallsmith’s 100th, July 1

Above About three dozen friends and relatives helped Palmer Lake resident Joseph Stallsmith celebrate his 100th birthday on July 1. Stallsmith told Our Community News, “There’s not too many around here” who have reached that milestone, “so, I guess it’s a big deal. I never thought when I was going to school that I’d make 100.” Stallsmith says he feels “all right.” Asked if he had any advice on how to live to 100, Stallsmith said, “Stay out of trouble.” Did he follow his own advice? “Not always,” he admitted, smiling. This has been a big year for Stallsmith. In addition to turning 100, the Palmer Lake Sanitation District dedicated its building to him in March. Stallsmith created the district 45 years ago. He also helped set up the sanitation system at the U.S. Air Force Academy. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

July 4th Festivities

Photos by David Futey

Palmer Lake Fun Run

Above: The 41st Palmer Lake Fun Run started off the Fourth of July festivities in the Tri-Lakes area. Race Director Kelsey Belsher said over 800 in-person and virtual runners from across the country participated in this year’s race. Belsher said the race is “100% volunteer led and organized” and she “thanks the community for having the race as an integral part of the Fourth events.” Belsher added, “All of the proceeds go to the Palmer Lake Elementary School (PLES) PTO who uses the funds to enrich the PLES student environment in the classroom, through field trips and teacher grants.” Andrew Bel (20:32) and Aubrey Surage (23:42), both from Colorado Springs, were the top male and female finishers. Pictured: Colorado Springs resident Susan Cassell, left, and Cinnamon Lepore of Monument.

Pancake Breakfast

Above: Knights of Columbus Council 11514 of St. Peter Church hosted its annual Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast. Grand Knight Alan Feldkamp coordinated the event with volunteer assistance from council members, Boy Scout Troop 17, students from St. Peter, and Monument Hill Kiwanis members. Feldkamp said, “We really enjoy doing this every year. We started serving at 6:30 a.m. to first responders and others and expect over 1,500 to take part including finishers of the Fun Run.” The breakfast choices were pancakes, eggs, two types of sausage, coffee, and orange juice. This is the Knights’ largest fundraiser of the year. Feldkamp said the Knights “donate to over 60 organizations including Eagle Scout Colin Sager’s P-51 monument project.”

Parade

Grayson Merriam, left, and Cameron Stathan have their bikes adorned with festive Fourth of July decorations as they await the start of the Monument Hill Kiwanis Children’s Parade.
Mitch LaKind, Monument mayor.
Glant Havenar, Palmer Lake mayor.
WWII Navy veteran Jim Swanson
WWII Army veteran Ed Beck
OCN volunteer and Colorado Front Range Unicyclist Audrey Burkart jumps rope while unicycling.
Greg Bielanski, Kiwanis president.
Makena Norton of Monument, Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Girl of the West.
Excited parade spectators yelling, “U.S.A.! U.S.A.!”
WWII Army Air Force Veteran, Jim Akin
Monument Fire Department
Palmer Ridge High School football team
Lewis Palmer High School football team

Tri-Lakes Chamber Street Fair

The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Street Fair in Monument was filled with post-parade spectators after the Monument Hill Kiwanis Main Parade on the Fourth of July. The spectators enjoyed a variety of food options and visited vendor booths.
John Howe and Karrie Pittman staffed the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce booth Photos by David Futey.

Pier ribbon cutting, July 24

Above: Members of Monument’s Parks, Water, and Streets Departments, along with the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce, watched Mayor Mitch LaKind cut the ribbon for the new pier at Monument Lake on July 24. It took three weeks to build the 375-foot pier. The project cost nearly $239,000. A Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission grant covered more than $171,000 of the price. The pier in the northeast corner of the lake has been very popular since opening on June 14. It gives anglers and pedestrians access to a part of the shoreline that previously had been inaccessible. This pier is in addition to the old, shorter pier at the southeast corner of the lake. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Patillo at TLCA, July 7

Above: Singer, songwriter, evangelist, and philanthropist Leon Patillo brought his uplifting one-man show to the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) on July 7. Patillo’s music career started in the 1960s performing with the funk group Creation and with Funkadelic and Martha and the Vandellas. In the mid-1970s, he joined Santana and performed on two of their albums, Borboletta and Festival. After two years with Santana, he turned to a solo career of contemporary Christian music. On this evening Patillo performed Proud to be an American along with his own songs, including Flesh of my Flesh, which is often played at weddings, and J.E.S.U.S. Between songs, Patillo shared life stories and philosophies such as “life is built on relationships” and his efforts toward helping children through his SING Foundation and Rise Above Bullying. Photo by David Futey.

Water tank nears completion

Above: On July 25, workers were wire wrapping and shooting layers of specialized concrete body coating on the Town of Monument water storage tank project. Wire wrap reinforces the installed concrete tank dome and side wall panels yet allows flexibility for fluctuating water levels inside the 2-million-gallon capacity tank once it is in service. Dismantlement of framing and decking, as well as piping, cleaning, and disinfecting of the interior will follow. Exterior painting will be the last step to complete the tank structure. Excavation began in spring 2022 in Forest View Estates west of Monument. A Colorado Supreme Court opinion says the town’s declaration of eminent domain, overriding the established Forest View Estates residential-only restricted covenants, does not require the town to compensate adjacent property owners for lowered property values based on the tank site appropriation. Photo by Sharon Williams.

Sunrise at Palmer Lake

Above: A fisherman casts his line and enjoys the serenity and sunrise at Palmer Lake on the Fourth of July. Photo by David Futey.

Eagle Scout seeks support

Above: Troop 17 Eagle Scout Colin Saber had a booth set up at the Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast to bring awareness to his Eagle Scout project. The project is to honor WWII Col. Earl Depner, a Monument resident who passed away in January 2022. He flew a P-51 Mustang. Saber said he really wants to honor all WWII U.S. pilots and fallen heroes for their sacrifice. The project is to move and install a 2,000 pound, 11-by-7 by 6-foot P-51 Mustang sculpture from Fort Collins to the Monument Town Hall. Saber needs to raise $55,000 for the project and is seeking support from the community. Information on how to support his project is at p51monument.com. Photo by David Futey.

Cruisers holds fundraiser, July 22

Above: The Tri-Lakes Cruisers Hotrod Club sponsored a fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association at Jackson Creek Senior Living on July 22. Vintage hotrods and muscle cars were on display, including a ‘32 “deuce coupe,” a souped-up ‘55 Chevy, Andy Houck’s restored ’55 Chevy “first series” pickup shown above, and many others. Jackson Creek Senior Living provided hot dogs, soft drinks, and cookies. Photo by Steve Pate.

TLWC visits Bear Creek Robotics

Above: Members of Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) got to see the results of one of their grants on June 14. From left, Grant Chairperson Julie Shook and co-President Shelley Pruett watched students use the robotics building kits that were bought with the grant. Shook and Pruett were guests of Bear Creek Elementary School at its Summer Robotics Camp. The camp, open to all second- to sixth-grade District 38 students, focuses on robotics and engineering. Last fall, the school started a formal robotics program through the First Lego League Challenge, a research and robotics tournament for 9- to 16-year-olds. To participate in the program, the school needs to buy model robot kits over the next few years, and that is where the TLWC grant came in. Photo by Anne Campbell.

Cherry Creek Chipping Day, July 15

Above: On July 15, residents of Cherry Creek Crossing held their First Annual Chipping Day with the Monument Fire Department. They hope to do this again. From left are firefighters Greg Lovato and Morgan Cudney and residents Dave Lewis and Jeff Childers. Photo by Mike Pipkins.

Monument Farmers Market

Above and below: Where is everybody? They were at the Farmers Market in Monument on Saturday morning. The Farmers Market was in full bloom and brimming with vegetables, fruit, baked goods, soap, and other items in the parking lot at Big Red, 66 Jefferson St. The Farmers Market will be open every Saturday until October, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Photos by Marlene Brown.

MSD celebrates 50th

Above and below: A band, balloons, and hot dogs marked the 50th anniversary celebration of Monument Sanitation District (MSD) on July 29. Members celebrated the board working out of the MSD office on Second Street since 1973. Mark Parker, district manager, was there making sure that all who attended had everything they needed to enjoy their lunch. MSD collects wastewater from the residents and businesses west of I-25 in and out of the town limits of Monument. See https://monumentsd.colorado.gov. Photos by Marlene Brown.

Other Snapshots of Our Community articles

Snapshots of Our Community

Thunderbirds rehearsed May 31 for the USAFA Graduation

Above and Below: The Thunderbirds rehearsed their airshow on May 31, a day before performing at the Air Force Academy’s graduation ceremony in Colorado Springs. A crowd watched the rehearsal from the parking lot at Bass Pro Shop in Northgate. The rehearsal was in two parts. In the morning, four planes conducted a survey flight. Then, in the afternoon, six planes practiced the airshow they would perform at the graduation. President Joe Biden spoke at the ceremony. He thanked the graduates for choosing “service over self.” Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

Fire district youth camp, June 1

Students engage in fire rescue drills at Station 1, Monument Fire District, during the first annual Youth Camp on June 1. Thirteen high school students attended the three-day camp on June 1-3 to discover more about the type of work firefighters and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers carry out. Students were taught about the history of the fire service, personnel protective equipment, hose and ladders, forcible entry, vehicle extrication, a host of EMS topics, and how to compete for a firefighter career position successfully. The camp is expected to expand next year to accommodate more students and continue annually for high school students with an interest in fire and EMS careers. Photo courtesy of Monument Fire District.

PLAG honors Maddox, June 2

Palmer Lake Art Group (PLAG) member John DeFrancesco, left, and PLAG President Vicki Mynhier, right, present Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) Executive Director Michael Maddox with a portrait of Maddox painted by DeFrancesco. The presentation took place at PLAG’s opening reception for its 2023 Color Splash Art Show at the TLCA on June 2. DeFrancesco said it was in recognition of Maddox’s “many years of supporting PLAG, the arts, and keeping the arts meaningful in the Tri-Lakes community.” DeFrancesco said he got the concept for the portrait composition from a photograph of Maddox on the TLCA stage as the lighting illuminated Maddox’s face. Photo by David Futey.

Hazel Miller at TLCA, June 3

On June 3, Colorado Music Hall of Fame 2023 inductee Hazel Miller, with Coco Brown and backup band The Collective, performed a Tribute to Aretha Franklin along with covers of other artists for a sold out and raucous Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) audience. Miller, Brown, and Collective guitarist Cody Carbone shared lead vocals and provided complementary background vocals throughout the evening while backed by exceptional Collective musicians Rich Lamb (bass), Dana Marsh (keyboards), and Brian Mikulich (drums). The Franklin songs performed included Baby, I Love You, Chain of Fools, Dr. Feelgood, Freeway of Love, and Respect. Interspersed among the Franklin songs, the group performed other covers including Stevie Wonder’s Superstition, Carlos Santana’s Smooth and culminated the evening with a tribute to Tina Turner with Proud Mary. Information on upcoming TLCA events is at www.trilakesarts.org. Photo by David Futey.

Cotton wins art scholarship, June 2

Lewis-Palmer District-38 High School art student Isabelle Cotton received the 2023 Palmer Lake Art Group (PLAG) Scholarship during PLAG’s opening reception at the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts on June 2. Cotton also had several of her works on display for the month-long PLAG gallery show. For 60 years, PLAG has offered the scholarship to a graduating D38 student who will be continuing their art education, awarding over $86,000 to date. Cotton said it is “an honor to receive the scholarship and have my artwork featured in this show.” Cotton will continue her artistic pursuits at Temple University in Japan. Photo by David Futey.

Zettler’s woodcarving wins 1st place

The Palmer Lake Art Group (PLAG) held its opening reception on June 2 for its 2023 Color Splash Art Show in the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) main gallery. The show was scheduled from June 1-28 and dedicated to the memory of longtime PLAG member Claudette Bedingfield. A total of 42 PLAG members had their works displayed at the show. Two paintings that were jointly painted by a variety of PLAG members, were auctioned off with proceeds going toward the PLAG scholarship fund. The show was judged by Tim Deibler, who selected Bob Zettler’s woodcarving (shown above) titled The Rock House for first place. An interesting display was 18 cloud and sky paintings by PLAG painters. The adjacent gallery contained Inside- and Outside- the Lines by Sandy Goddard (paintings) and John Goddard (photography). This show goes through July 25. Information about PLAG is at www.palmerlakeartgroup.com. Photo by David Futey.

Shiloh Pines chipping day, June 3

The residents of Shiloh Pines Homeowners Association west of Monument Lake worked through the rain on June 3, with the help of the Monument Fire District chipper and two firefighters, to reduce the load of “ladder fuels” in their neighborhood. By removing flammable material close to homes, it’s less likely the home will ignite during a wildfire. And by thinning pines growing too close together to thrive and reducing the amount of Gambel oak, when a ground fire comes through, there’s less of a chance it will become a crown fire. See https://csfs.colostate.edu/wildfire-mitigation/. Photo courtesy of Shiloh Pines HOA.

Tri-Lakes Lions hold annual Palmer Lake Fishing Derby, June 3

The Tri-Lakes Lions Club held its annual Fishing Derby for kids at Palmer Lake on a cold, rainy June 3. About 160 young people ages 4 to 14 competed for prizes for the biggest fish. Colorado Parks and Wildlife provided fishing rods for those who did not bring their own, and bait was also provided. According to Jim Hazuka, co-chair of the derby, Bass Pro Shop provided prizes including tackle boxes and fishing rods. Other sponsors included Farmers Insurance, Rosie’s Diner, and Colorado Friends and Family Fishing. Parents or other adults helped the young people rig their fishing gear and cast if needed. Palmer Lake’s water level had been too low to accommodate the derby until recent torrential rains replenished the Palmer Lake reservoirs and the lake. Parks and Wildlife again stocked the lake with rainbow trout before the derby.
Photo by Steve Pate.
Kaison (center) with a friend, and his dad Landon Blatter, caught an 11¾-inch trout. Photo by Steve Pate.

PLAC offers summer art classes

Camilla Borroel and Hunter Aho enjoy the first summer art class inaugurated by the Palmer Lake Arts Council (PLAC), which will offer children’s art experiences throughout the summer. These classes are sponsored by PLAC and Facinelli Motors. So far, classes were held at The Shop in Palmer Lake. Photo courtesy of Palmer Lake Arts Council.

Church buries time capsule

The Church at Woodmoor is celebrating its 50th anniversary. In honor of the occasion, a time capsule was buried in front of the church on June 11. It contains a cross used by Pastor Bob Browning in Vietnam during battlefield communion, a replica of the three crosses in front of the church, a church directory, a book of photos, a copy of The Messenger, a church bulletin, a history of the church, and photos of the church grounds. Next to the spot where the time capsule was buried, a commemorative sculpture of the church’s logo was installed.
Left photo by Robyn Martinez. Right photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Volunteer gardeners honored

Tia M. Mayer and John Howe were honored by the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce on June 7 for their work in reviving the garden next to the Chamber’s meeting house on Highway 105. The garden is called Ms. T’s after Mayer, who’s in charge of buying and installing new plants. Mayer says she’s always wanted a public garden to take care of and it’s an “incredible honor” to have the freedom to plant what she wants. Chamber President and CEO Terri Hayes (right) says the garden used to be in “horrendous” shape before Mayer and Howe took over. Mayer and Howe received a certificate of appreciation, a gift card, and a note that says, “The entire community benefits from your efforts.” The building was originally a schoolhouse in the 19th century settlement of Gwillimville before moving to Monument Presbyterian Church, where it was used as a Sunday school. It was then donated to the Chamber and moved to its current site about 20 years ago. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Free shredding in Black Forest

For the first time since 2019 when COVID-19 shut down everything, Chapter 1100 of AARP in conjunction with AARP ElderWatch Colorado held a free shredding event in Black Forest on June 10. People from 21 areas of central Colorado dropped off their personal documents for shredding, yielding about 7,000 pounds of paper, which will be recycled. They also donated 370 pounds of non-perishable food and $255 to the Black Forest Care and Share Food Bank. Shredding unneeded personal documents is recommended to make sure no one can find personal information in trash bins or storage areas. In the photo, volunteers unload personal documents to waiting trucks for on-site professional shredding. Photo by Stan Beckner.

Awake the Lake holds “fun”-raiser

On Saturday, June 10, the “fun-raiser” sub-committee of Awake Palmer Lake held a Red Wine & Blue BBQ, a fundraising event at Palmer Lake Town Hall. The sold-out event raised money for the fireworks display at the upcoming Festival on the Fourth in Palmer Lake on July 4. Attendees enjoyed a barbecue dinner, lawn games, music, and line-dancing lessons. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Mass casualty drill, June 14

First responders and volunteer casualties participate in an area-wide mass casualty incident drill at Lewis-Palmer High School on June 14. Monument Fire District, in partnership with Monument Police Department, hosted the drill on June 12, 14, and 16. The purpose of the drill was to allow local first responders to practice their roles in a mass casualty event, should one occur in the area. The following organizations also participated in the drills: District 38 Security, Palmer Lake Police and Fire Department, Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District, Colorado Springs Fire Department, Falcon Fire Protection District, Security Fire Department, American Medical Response, and Asteri Ambulance. About 35 volunteers from Emergency Incident Support provided food and refreshments, and they were actors during the drill. Photo courtesy of Monument Fire District.

New pier on Monument Lake

There’s a new pier at Monument Lake. It took eight days to build the 370-foot structure on the northeast corner of the lake. The project was completed on June 14. Anglers and pedestrians will now be able to cross the lake and get to a part of the shoreline that had been inaccessible. The pier was constructed in sections with members of the Public Works Department maneuvering each section through the water with long poles. The sections are weighed down with 55-gallon drums filled with concrete each weighing 1,000 pounds. The project cost about $224,000. About three-quarters of the cost was picked up by a $171,000 Fishing is Fun Grant from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

BOCC hearing on redistricting

On Monday, June 12, the El Paso Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) held a public meeting of the redistricting committee at Lewis-Palmer High School, greeted by demonstrators. The BOCC, which is required to redraw the county commissioner districts at least once in the second odd year after the decennial census, appointed itself to the redistricting committee at its April 18 meeting and must hold public meetings in each commissioner district and complete the process by Sept. 30. After opening remarks, a presentation on possible maps based on previous commission direction, and a demonstration of the geographical information tool they used and that the public could use to propose its own maps, the board heard public comments from local district residents, residents outside the local district, and residents from outside the county. Comments included concerns about the previous redistricting splitting the town of Monument into two separate districts and dividing the southeastern quarter of the county into three districts. These actions were described as diluting the votes of Manitou Springs after a close election and splitting the vote of the primarily Black and Latino community in southeastern Colorado Springs. Information about the redistricting process, including videos of past meetings and the schedule for upcoming meetings, can be found at https://www.elpasoco.com/redistricting/. The next redistricting meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 6 in Commission District 4 at Mesa Ridge High School. From left are the clerk to the board, Commissioners Holly Williams D-1, Cami Bremer, D-5, Carrie Geitner D-2, Stan VanderWerf D-3, and County Attorney Kenneth Hodges. Commissioner Longinos Gonzalez Jr. D-4 attended by phone. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Avian hangout, June 13

Who says only birds of a feather flock together? The morning of June 13, I spotted a heron, a mother goose and her two goslings and seven cormorants hanging out together by the dam at Monument Lake. Once they dispersed, the heron flew to the new pier and landed on the railing where it stayed until workers arrived to complete construction of the pier. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Monument water tank update

Erection of scaffolding on June 23 is keeping construction on schedule for the 2-million-gallon Town of Monument concrete water storage tank in residential Forest View Estates IV (FVE IV). The erected scaffolding will support on-site, pre-poured concrete wall panels which were scheduled to be set during the week of June 26 through first part of July. These panels will be placed by a 500-ton crane with a longest boom reach of 156 feet with lift and carry of 28,000 pounds. Once the wall panels are placed, formation rebar and reinforcement preparation will be done for pouring of the concrete dome later in July. Residential property in FVE IV is restricted by recorded covenants limited for residential use. The Town of Monument purchased the property from a private citizen, declared eminent domain over the property, then eliminated the restrictive covenant. The expansive water tank project will provide for Monument water needs with pipeline access currently being laid through adjacent residential areas of Forest View Estates, Red Rock Ranch, Highway 105, and downtown Monument. Photo by Sharon Williams.

PLAC hosts Shakespere in the Park

Above and below: On June 24, the Palmer Lake Arts Council (PLAC) hosted the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs TheatreWorks troupe. They entertained a happy crowd at the Palmer Lake Village Green with their lively, innovative version of Shakespeare’s Pericles, a romantic play of adventure and intrigue, including pirates, heroes, royalty, and villains. TheaterWorks offers free theater events to many local communities and will perform The Taming of the Shrew at Ent Center for the Arts in July. The PLAC will offer other various events over the summer. In October, PLAC will offer a play about Palmer Lake, written by a local playwright. Photos by Janet Sellers.

Other Snapshots of Our Community

Snapshots of Our Community

Tri-Lakes honors Memorial Day

Above: It was warm and sunny on May 29 when about 200 people attended a Memorial Day ceremony in Monument Cemetery. The red, white, and blue American flag and the black POW/MIA flag were raised, then lowered to half-staff as an honor guard made up of members of St. Peter Church Knights of Columbus Assembly #2594, Knights of Columbus Assembly #11514, American Legion Post 9-11, and VFW Post 7829 saluted and some raised their swords while the crowd sang the national anthem. The ceremony included speeches by local and state politicians and the traditional reading of the names of veterans interred in the cemetery while a bell was rung for each name. The program ended with taps played by Michael Carlson, a graduate of Palmer Ridge High School. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

New girl scout troop

Above: Gleneagle Sertoma created a new scout troop for girls on April 19 that will be linked to Boy Scout Troop 194. Members of Troop 194 Girls will be able to earn merit badges and take on challenges similar to the boys’ troop. District executive David Durkee says, “The value of including all siblings and family members in the wonderful world of scouting is tremendous for our community,” Eight girls who are sisters of current scouts were the first to enroll. To learn more about Boy Scouts Troop 194 and 194 Girls, visit their website at csscouts.org or on Facebook at Troop 194 Gleneagle. In the photo, Troop 194 Girls are shown learning knot tying. Photo by Christine Pollard.

Merrick honored for sculpture

Above: On May 1, Jerry Merrick, seated, was honored with a plaque for his iconic elephant rock sculpture in Palmer Lake. A local stone mason by trade, he created the artwork for the historic Camp Elephant Rock site in Palmer Lake in 1972. A group of local Palmer Lake Arts District members and friends joined in the celebration, and he is shown here with his family members. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Local goalie’s team wins big

Above: Bailey Unruh, a 13-year-old goalie from Lewis-Palmer Middle School, helped her team win the World Selects Invite (WSI) youth hockey world championship on April 29. Bailey is the only Coloradan on the North American Prospects, who defeated Sweden 3-2 in the final contest. The Prospects beat 11 other teams from nine countries to take home the gold. Bailey allowed only one goal in the entire tournament. The WSI is an invitation-only event that provides the top players in the world the opportunity to compete in a world-class hockey competition and cultural experience. Photo by Eric Unruh.

Monument Glamping ribbon-cutting

Above: The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting at Monument Glamping on May 1. Glamping is glamorous camping. Co-owners Chris and Wendy Jeub were surrounded by several members of their family in red hats and red checkered shirts as the business was officially dedicated. Chris, who’s also a volunteer for Our Community News, said they got the idea for the business five years ago when he and his wife stayed in a tent in their yard while their house was being renovated. They now have five tents as well as four container homes, a treehouse, and a tiny house available for booking. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

Arbor Day at Monument Lake

Above: Arbor Day was celebrated a month late at Monument Lake on May 5. The original event was postponed from April 28 because of snow. About 20 people attended. They watched as Parks/Facility Superintendent James Schubauer (with rake) demonstrated proper planting techniques for two 7-foot Honey Crisp Apple trees which replaced the 100-year-old apple tree lost during sewer construction. A tiny shoot remains from the original tree. Parks and Trails Planner and Program Manager Cassie Olgren provided additional education about trees and sent the attendees home with free plants. Five Montmorency Cherry trees, another Honey Crisp, and a Haralred Apple were planted earlier after construction was completed. Photo by Tia M. Mayer.

Flooding in Monument, May 12

Above: Heavy rain turned Monument Creek into a raging river, caused Monument Lake to overflow its banks, and flooded parts of Jackson Creek Parkway and Old Denver Road last month. The National Weather Service estimates that nearly 6 inches of rain fell in Monument from May 10-12. The town warned residents online and with LED road signs to drive carefully if they came upon standing water. Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

Battalion Chief Keough retires

Above: From left, Lt. Chris Keough, retired Battalion Chief Mike Keough, Fire Chief Andy Kovacs, Lt. Franz Hankins, and Monument Fire District (MFD) staff at Station 1 on Highway 105, on May 13. Mike Keough received a full retirement ceremony with the district honor guard and an El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center duty sign-off. With shift staff, family, and friends, the ceremony celebrated Keough’s retirement after 19 years of service with the district. Keough reminisced about how the department had undergone many changes from the beginning of his service as a Fire Explorer in the late 1990s when MFD had one station and a storage barn with a paid fire chief, an administrative assistant, a paramedic, 15 volunteer firefighters, and 16 Fire Explorers. Keough said he was incredibly proud to have served and developed the district, and the department had come a long way in 25 years, first combining with Woodmoor Fire Department to become Tri-Lakes Fire Protection District, and more recently with Donald Wescott Fire Protection District to become MFD with a joint staff of almost 100. For more information on Fire and EMS Career Exploring, visit www.exploring.org. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.

Black Forest AARP at Expo

Above: On May 6, 11 members of Black Forest AARP Chapter 1100 took turns staffing a booth at the Senior Life Expo that was attended by over 500 people. The previous day, the Board of Directors met to prepare for a summer of serving the community. Joining board members were chapter officers and several committee and chapter members. They discussed plans for the annual free shredding event on June 10 and the Black Forest Festival on Aug. 12, among other things. The shredding event will be held from 9 to noon at 12455 Black Forest Road in Black Forest. No reservation is needed. Photo by Stan Beckner.

LPHS final 2023 concert, May 9

Above: The Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Symphony performed their final concert for 2023 on May 9 at Lewis-Palmer High School. Seniors won awards for excellence: The John Philip Sousa Award was won by Nikolai Skorick (trumpet and composer), the Patrick S. Gilmore Band Award was won by Breanna Atnip (oboe and English horn) and Alex Weeks (trombone), The Director’s Award for Band was won by Ezra Bloomfield (clarinet and Eb clarinet) and Riley Smith (bass trombone), the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award was won by Jackson Strahan (baritone saxophone), the Woody Herman Jazz Award was won by Ashley Meggett (flutes and bass), and the Donald L. Bresse Award for Leadership was won by Isabella D’Ambra (trumpet and piano) and Cameron Gearhart (percussion). This was the final concert directed by Tom Chapman, who is leaving LPHS after this school year. Photo by Steve Pate.

FofFRP hold trail cleanup, May 13

Above: The Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Symphony performed their final concert for 2023 on May 9 at Lewis-Palmer High School. Seniors won awards for excellence: The John Philip Sousa Award was won by Nikolai Skorick (trumpet and composer), the Patrick S. Gilmore Band Award was won by Breanna Atnip (oboe and English horn) and Alex Weeks (trombone), The Director’s Award for Band was won by Ezra Bloomfield (clarinet and Eb clarinet) and Riley Smith (bass trombone), the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award was won by Jackson Strahan (baritone saxophone), the Woody Herman Jazz Award was won by Ashley Meggett (flutes and bass), and the Donald L. Bresse Award for Leadership was won by Isabella D’Ambra (trumpet and piano) and Cameron Gearhart (percussion). This was the final concert directed by Tom Chapman, who is leaving LPHS after this school year. Photo by Steve Pate.

Flying Horse Medical Center

Above: The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce, of which OCN is a member, held its monthly Business After Hours meeting at the Flying Horse Medical Center in Monument on May 16. The medical center is a full-service medical facility that offers concierge family medicine. Shown are Haley Chapin, director of Tri-Lakes Cares in Monument, with John Howe, OCN volunteer and community leader. Photo by Steve Pate.

Planned Fox Run Nature Center

Above: Several people from El Paso County Parks and Community Services, TDG Architecture firm, Studio Tectonic, and interested members of the community met May 17 at Antelope Trails Elementary to discuss the design and vision of the new Fox Run Nature Center. Projected to open in summer 2024, the project has been included in the county Master Plan since 2013. The Nature Center will provide indoor interpretations of the natural setting of the forest and an understanding of the ecosystem beyond. A media room will be available to the public for gatherings of all kinds, such as lectures, meetings, and parties ((www.tdg-fnc.com/project-info). For more information regarding Fox Run Nature Center, contact Jason Meyer, Park Planning Division manager at jasonmeyer@elpaso.com. Building rendition photo courtesy of TDG Architecture. Photo by Marlene Brown.

Smoke from Canadian wildfires

Above: Several people from El Paso County Parks and Community Services, TDG Architecture firm, Studio Tectonic, and interested members of the community met May 17 at Antelope Trails Elementary to discuss the design and vision of the new Fox Run Nature Center. Projected to open in summer 2024, the project has been included in the county Master Plan since 2013. The Nature Center will provide indoor interpretations of the natural setting of the forest and an understanding of the ecosystem beyond. A media room will be available to the public for gatherings of all kinds, such as lectures, meetings, and parties ((www.tdg-fnc.com/project-info). For more information regarding Fox Run Nature Center, contact Jason Meyer, Park Planning Division manager at jasonmeyer@elpaso.com. Building rendition photo courtesy of TDG Architecture. Photo by Marlene Brown.

Monument storage tank update

Above: On May 24, the final grade to level the base of the excavation site for the 2-million-gallon Monument water storage tank was in process to completion for pouring the concrete floor during the first week of June. This expansive storage tank project site began early in 2022. The project is closely bordered by established residential properties of Forest View Estates, adjacent to the Red Rock Ranch area. On-site pouring and casting of the concrete panels for the storage tank have already been started. Erection of the tank panels will begin later in June. Trenching for the water pipeline has already been done through the Forest View Estates and Red Rock Ranch residential roads. Continuation of laying the pipeline is progressing along Highway 105 into downtown Monument. Caption by Sharon Williams. Photo courtesy of Adams Brien.

Arthop, May 18

Above: After an afternoon downpour, sunshine burst through the clouds just in time for visitors to enjoy the Monument Art Hop. Here, artist and gallerist Daryl Muncey (far right) engaged with visitors at his gallery on May 18. Muncey has renovated the building and grounds over the last few years to be his art studio and decided to open it as a friendly, enjoyable art gallery as well. Muncey specializes in faith-based and abstract artworks. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Claude Bourbon at TLCA, May 19

Above: Claude Bourbon and his exemplary guitar style returned to the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) stage on May 19. Along with his unique and dynamic singing, Bourbon captivated the TLCA audience by seamlessly changing musical genres such as classical, folk, blues, Spanish, between and within songs. Bourbon’s sets included Cold River, the title track from his 2018 album release, Did Somebody Make a Fool out of You, Last Train to Arkansas, a cover of Tony Joe White’s The Guitar Don’t Lie and Frederic Chopin’s Prelude No. 4. Information on upcoming events at the TLCA is at www.trilakesarts.org. Photo by David Futey.

TLC STABLe graduation, May 23

Above: Tri-Lakes Cares strives to promote stability for its clients with an eight-week workshop called Secrets to a Better Life (STABLe). The program focuses on financial stability, time management, and social skills, encouraging participants to examine their past, learn about resources, and build public speaking and negotiation skills. The graduation celebration on May 23 included friends, family, and supporters as well as El Paso County commissioners and representatives from the Monument Town Council. After speeches by guests and a former graduate, current graduates received their certificates and shared what they learned and their goals for the future. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

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Snapshots of Our Community

Monument water storage tank excavation in Forest View Estates

Above: Excavation resumed during April to prepare for installation of a 2-million-gallon water storage tank for the town of Monument. The town acquired the site by eminent domain in 2016, although the location in Forest View Estates had recorded restrictive covenants stating the property and other lots within Forest View Estates were limited to residential use. The initial excavation began in the summer and fall of 2022. During the winter of 2022-23, work on the property was tabled while laying of pipeline started and is ongoing along residential roads in Forest View Estates, Red Rock Ranch, Highway 105, and residential streets in downtown Monument. Photo by Sharon Williams.

Donations to Literacy Center

Above: The Palmer Ridge Key Club (PRKC) and Monument Hill Kiwanis Club (MHKC) donated more than 300 books and $650 for Tri-Lakes Children’s Literacy Center (CLC) on March 20. The money was raised during sponsorship nights at Arlene’s Beans in Monument and Mod Pizza in Colorado Springs. The Lewis-Palmer Middle School Builders Club (LPMSBC) and PRKC made another donation of more than 100 books to CLC. Many young children end up reading below their age level because they have no books of their own at home. CLC works with families and the community to provide an effective literacy program for struggling readers in grades 1-3. Each student gets personalized one-on-one tutoring. To donate or become a tutor, contact Tri-Lakes Senior Center Coordinator Rachel Morin at 610-246-1047. In the photo, Morin thanks PRKC President Todd Osborn and Elliot Beagley of Lewis-Palmer Middle School Bear Creek for their contributions. Photo by Dean Snow.

TLWC named Non-Profit of the Year

Above: Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) has been named Non-Profit of the Year by the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce. TLWC was honored by the chamber at its annual awards dinner on April 14. TLWC earned the honor for its accomplishments and contributions to the Tri-Lakes community. Accepting the award were members Charlie Ann Hayes, left, and Ann Cook. Photo courtesy of Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce.

Emergency Preparedness

Above: Students at Palmer Ridge High School helped organize an Emergency Preparedness Symposium on April 8. Several organizations that deal with emergencies like wildfires and disasters that might call for evacuation or “shelter in place” described the parameters for deciding proper responses. Christopher Gonzales, commander of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, has responded to many types of emergencies in our county. He described how decisions are made about addressing various emergencies, including traffic flow, first responder access, reverse 911 calls, and more. He suggested all county residents sign up for the reverse 911 service by logging into “Peak Alerts” at https://www.elpasoteller911.org/246/Peak-Alerts. A presentation by Lisa Hatfield and André Mouton of the Tri-Lakes United Methodist Church Emergency Preparedness Group (EPG) described how the group has helped Tri-Lakes residents “harden” their homes against wildfires. The process includes removing flammable materials from within 5 feet of your home, eliminating “laddering” vegetation, e.g., tall grass to Gambel oak to pines, preventing an ember storm from entering through vents in the eaves of your home, and other preventive measures. Photo by Steve Pate.

Cotton wins PLAG scholarship

Above: Each year, the Palmer Lake Art Group awards Art Scholarships to District 38 graduating seniors who have demonstrated serious commitment to art, intend to continue art studies, and plan for a profession with the visual arts. Isabelle Cotton, graduating senior at Palmer Ridge High School, was awarded the 2023 art scholarship of $2,500. Isabelle will attend Temple University, Japan Campus in the fall. Photo provided by the Palmer Lake Arts Group.

Gleneagle Egg Hunt

Above: On April 8, the Antelope Trails Elementary (ATE) School field was filled with Easter colors as over 6,000 plastic eggs were spread across it for the Gleneagle Easter Egg Hunt. The plastic eggs contained hard candy, bubble gum, bouncy balls, and other treats. Blair Dinkins, who lives adjacent to ATE, coordinated the hunt in partnership with the school. She is a realtor with the Colorado Team, a residential real estate agency that sponsored the event. She and other agency employees set up and conducted the event. Dinkins said, “We (the agency) wanted to bring something fun to the neighborhood for Easter.” The children were divided into three age groups with each assigned a different part of the field and then, at the sound of a horn, proceeded with the egg gathering simultaneously. There were also giveaways, food and coffee trucks, and free donuts. Photo by David Futey.

Lewis-Palmer HS Concert

Above: In preparation for the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) band competition, Lewis-Palmer High School (LPHS) presented its Symphonic Band, Wind Symphony, and Small Ensemble concert on April 11. Tom Chapman, who directed the Symphonic Band, will leave LPHS after this academic year and will direct a final concert on May 9. The Small Ensemble included flutes, clarinets, trumpets, low brass, percussion, a woodwind choir, double woodwind quintet, and a brass choir. The small ensembles performed “on their own” without direction. Photo by Steve Pate.

Station 4 Push-In Ceremony

Above: Above: Monument Fire District staff and residents “push-in” the new Pierce Engine 514 at Station 4 in Gleneagle on April 29. Monument Mayor Mitch LaKind, Monument Fire District staff, board directors and residents gathered at the station on Gleneagle Drive to push in the 2023 Pierce Engine 514 and squad car 575, the first of its kind in the district. The ceremony of “pushing-in” apparatus harkens back to the 1800s, when fire departments used horse-drawn steamer engines to put out fires. After fighting the fire, crews would ready the horses in the stable for the next call, but because horses will not walk backward when they are under load, crews would push the apparatus back into narrow station bays. The time-honored tradition continues nationwide, whenever a department is lucky to receive new apparatus. Photo By Natalie Barszcz.

FOMP Trail Night

Above: About 50 people showed up for the first Friends of Monument Preserve (FOMP) Trail Night of the season on April 11. Participation was greater than normal due to local concern about recent wildfire mitigation by the Pikes Peak Ranger District of the U.S. Forest Service in the Monument Preserve. Many trails were covered by debris from the “mastication” of Gambel oak groves and most vegetation under 6 inches in diameter. Brian Mullin, FOMP president, split the participants into small groups to clear debris from trails. Future trail nights will be on the second Tuesday of each month May through September, 6-8 p.m., and 5-7 p.m. the second Tuesday in October. Anyone is welcome to help build and maintain trails on these dates by simply showing up or by checking the FOMP website, www.fomp.org, for more details and other workdays. On a hike through the preserve a week later, April 18, the trails were in good shape—at least visible—and hikers and mountain bikers were out enjoying a nice day. Photo by Steve Pate.

Friends of Fox Run Park

Above: Members of Friends of Fox Run Park (FoFRP) helped clean the roadsides April 13 in Fox Run Park Regional Park near the dog park for Earth Day Week. Pictured from left are Dave Futey, Steve Jeroslow, and Linda Davies. There are several days scheduled to work with the park employees to clean up and help work on projects such as trail maintenance and fence repair. Contact FoFRP at friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com for more information. Photo by Julie Haverluk.

Sertoma fallen officer donation

Above: Gleneagle Sertoma Club donated $10,000 to the family of fallen Fountain police officer Julian Becerra (pictured in the background) on March 22. Becerra died after falling off a bridge while chasing a carjacking suspect on Feb. 2. Club President Larry Oliver presented the check to, from left, Fountain police officer John Kay, Colorado Springs Police Protective Association/Southern Colorado Law Enforcement Foundation Executive Director Sherryl Dillon, and Colorado Springs police officer Patrick David. Sertoma member Pete Peterson paid a moving tribute to Becerra and all first responders at the club’s recent Business and Pleasure event at Beasts and Brews in Colorado Springs. Photo by Dr. Vicki Wynn.

Eric Elison at TLCA

Above: On April 15, the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) hosted singer/songwriter Eric Elison and his Gordon Lightfoot Tribute Band. Elison, known as The Lightfoot of the Rockies, captivated the audience at this sold-out show with known and lesser-known Lightfoot songs along with a few of his originals. They performed Lightfoot songs included Early Morning Rain, a song that Lightfoot said was his “first best song,” If You Could Read My Mind, Sundown, The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, Song for a Winter’s Night written in Cleveland in the summer, Carefree Highway and Christian Island. The band also performed Elison’s Worthy of You, a tribute to his wife of 44 years. Elison, playing six- and 12-string guitars, was accompanied by highly accomplished musicians Frank Sanchez (electric bass), Matt Podschweit (keyboard), Dina Hollingsworth (flute) and KJ Braithwaite (lead guitar). Note: This concert happened two weeks before Lightfoot’s death at age 84. He died May 1. Information on upcoming events at the TLCA is at trilakesarts.org. Photo by David Futey.

TLWC donates to first responders

Above: Members of Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) delivered over $800 worth of gift cards to area fire, police, and EMS workers to thank them for all of the work they do to keep our community safe. TLWC members also delivered the gift cards and baked goods to the Pike Interagency Hotshot Crew on April 15. From left are TLWC member Judy Sawyer, Monument Police Sgt. Michael Case, and TLWC member Sandra Sciadini. Photo by Deborah Braun.

Alpine Essentials Ribbon-Cutting

Above: Members of the Woodward family attended a ribbon-cutting in front of their marijuana dispensary Alpine Essentials in Palmer Lake on April 19. Brother and sister co-owners Melissa and Tyler Woodward, their mother and co-owner Brenda and Tyler’s wife, Sarah, who manages the shop, were at the ceremony sponsored by the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce. Melissa said the ceremony was part of a “great journey” the family has been on. “It feels incredible,” she said. The Woodward family has been in Palmer Lake for four generations. Alpine Essentials first opened as a medical dispensary eight years ago. They officially added recreational sales on April 1. Their shop is one of two recreational dispensaries in Palmer Lake. The other is Dead Flowers, which also sells medical marijuana. Voters passed recreational sales last November by 55% to 45% in an effort to alleviate the town’s financial troubles. In the photo are, from left, starting with Melissa Woodward in yellow, Brenda, Brenda’s daughter-in law Sarah, and Sarah’s husband Tyler. Photo by Michael Weinfeld.

D20 Community Garden

Above: Some of the D20 Community Garden volunteers engaged in the spring cleanup of the D20 Community Garden on a sunny Saturday morning April 29 at Antelope Trails Elementary School. Tia Guillan of Academy District 20 led a team of about 30 volunteers from Antelope Trails Elementary fifth-grade student leadership, I Love Colorado Springs-City Serve, Woodmen Valley Chapel members, Discovery Canyon Campus High School National Honor Society, staff members, and families. The students annually plant strawberries, pumpkins, and sunflowers to line the fence in late summer, and each grade level tends a planter with a variety of plants throughout the growing season. The large team of volunteers prepares the community garden and the landscaping features in both spring and fall. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.

TLC appreciates MHKC

Above: Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) has shown its appreciation for the help it’s gotten from the Monument Hill Kiwanis Club (MHKC). From left, MHKC President Greg Bielanski accepted a certificate of appreciation from TLC Development Specialist Christine Bucher and Executive Director Haley Chapin on April 15. Each year, MHKC conducts three major events that benefit TLC. They are Empty Bowls, with support from D38, in October, Harvest of Love, planned and executed by Service Leadership Programs in all D38 Schools in November, and the North Pole Craft Fair in December. These events raise more than $20,000 and about six tons of food each year. Photo by Warren Gerig.

100+ Women Who Care

Above: At the bi-annual meeting of the 100+ Women Who Care Tri-Lakes, three presentations were given by local nonprofits Tri-Lakes Cares, Friends of Fox Run Park, and Monument Warriors as to why they should be voted on and awarded a grant from the group. Each woman member writes a $100 check to the nonprofit that was voted to win. Monument Warriors, pictured, won the spring event on April 19. With over 45 women in attendance, over $4,500 was given to the Monument Warriors that night, and the other women could mail a check to the winner. Photo by Marlene Brown.

DCC Concert

Above: On April 25, the Discovery Canyon Campus (DCC) high school bands and orchestras of the Instrumental Music Program performed a Spring Concert for a capacity audience of parents and friends in the DCC high school theater. Among the music performed, Instrumental Music Teacher Kevin Whitelaw directed the Jazz Ensemble performing Blue Monk by Thelonious Monk, the String Orchestra performing Rhythmos by Kathryn Griesinger, and the Symphonic Band with music from How to Train Your Dragon. The Concert Band, directed by Jack Yonce, performed Renaissance Suite by Tielman Susato. For the finale, Whitelaw directed the combined bands and orchestras for music from The Incredibles by Michael Giacchino. Before the performance, the program held its end-of-year banquet, where Outstanding Classman, Hemiola, National Band, orchestra and jazz awards were announced. Photo by David Futey.

Tri-Lakes Cares Garden

Above: Students from Palmer Ridge High School have been helping with the Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC) fresh food garden. Volunteers are welcome throughout the growing season, which is especially important through the summer. Contact JanetSellers@ocn.me for more information. Photo provided by Janet Sellers.

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Snapshots of Our Community

D38 at the state capitol

Above: On March 1, a delegation of community members, parents, educators, board members, and the administrators from D38 took a trip to the state capitol to meet with state legislators and attend both House and Senate sessions. The trip was arranged by district lobbyist Amy Attwood and gave the district a chance to forge relationships and make the case for increased funding for K-12 education. Attendees were able to meet with Rep. Don Wilson, D20 Monument; Sen. Mark Baisly, SD-4, Sen. Paul Lundeen, SD-9, and Sen. Janice Marchman, SD-15. All have Education Committee assignments. Wilson and Lundeen are local to the Tri-Lakes area and Marchman is a working teacher. The group also got to sit in on part of a House and Senate session and watch a debate on Senate amendments to HB23-1064 Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact designed to make it easier for teachers, especially active military members and eligible military spouses, from one member state to receive a teacher’s license from another member state. The amendments were rejected, the bill was passed in the Senate, sent to the governor, and signed into law. In the photo from right to left are Leah Braaten, elementary teacher; Alexandra Seabourn, reading interventionist; Amy Sienkowski, middle school assistant principal; Tiffiney Upchurch, board member; Cynthia Eversole, music teacher; Chris Thomas, kindergarten teacher, Brett Ridgway, chief business officer; Carolyn Bedingfield, grandmother; followed by several other attendees up through KC Somers, D38 superintendent. Not shown are: Char Armstrong, psychologist; Jackie Burhans, community member and parent alumni; Courtney Bushnell, business/marketing/computer science teacher; James Howald, community member and parent alumni; Stephanie Markle, social studies teacher; and Theresa Phillips, board vice president. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Palmer Lake Broomball, Feb. 26

Above: On Feb. 26, the Palmer Lake Parks Commission sponsored the Second Annual Palmer Lake Winterfest Broomball Tournament. Proceeds from the event will be applied toward park improvements in Palmer Lake. The tournament had three divisions: Adult, Family/Friends, and Youth, with 10 teams signed up. Each team consisted of six players including the goalie. Teams could also have substitutes. Players needed to bring their own brooms and the desire to have a fun day on the Palmer Lake ice. Players and spectators also enjoyed music, s’mores, drinks, and various treats throughout the afternoon. Photo by David Futey.

Team Rubicon wildfire mitigation

Above: On March 4 and 5, 40 volunteers of Team Rubicon conducted wildfire mitigation operations in the foothills west of Larkspur. Their efforts included Home Ignition Zone mitigation education and the reduction of potential wildfire fuel through tree thinning operations. This area has been designated as high risk for extreme wildfires. The team’s efforts are part of a county-wide collaborative effort to protect life, property, and critical infrastructure outlined in the Douglas County Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Team Rubicon is a veteran-led volunteer disaster prevention and response group. This is the second of seven wildfire prevention efforts planned for this year in various Colorado communities. Caption by David LaRivee. Photo by Sharon Williams.

The Stickmen at the TLCA, Mar. 1

Above: The Stickmen brought their unique progressive rock style to the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA) stage on March 1. The trio is composed of bassist Tony Levin, drummer Pat Mastelotto, and guitarist Markus Reuter. The band’s name is derived from the Chapman Stick played by Levin. The Chapman Stick is a 10- to 12-string instrument that offers the versatility of being used to play bass lines, melodies, and chords. Levin is considered one of the preeminent Chapman Stick players in the world. The Stick along with the U8 Touch guitar played by Reuter are both typically played by tapping and other techniques without the use of a guitar pick. The trio played selections from their 2022 EP titled Tentacles including Ringtone, Danger in the Workplace, and the title track Tentacles. Their set also included Prog Noir, Crack in the Sky, which is based on a Levin poem, and three King Crimson songs including Red. Levin and Mastelotto are longtime members of that band. Levin also has the distinction of having played on over 1,000 albums, being one of the most recorded bassists in music history. Photo by David Futey.

Drilling through the night

Above: Monument’s Well 13 near Santa Fe Trail and Fourth Street had a drilling rig operating 24 hours a day with a sound barrier wall and a well-lit tower and work space. The drilling took place over the last few weeks and is now completed, providing water for Monument’s residents. Photo by Jackie Burhans.

Stallsmith building dedication

Above: The Palmer Lake Sanitation District dedicated the district’s building to Joseph Stallsmith on March 8. Forty-five years ago, Stallsmith created the Palmer Lake Sanitation District and selected the original board members. Mark Bruce, current board chairman, presented a plaque commemorating Stallsmith’s contribution to the district and the Palmer Lake community. The plaque will be displayed at the entrance to the building. Stallsmith, 99, thanked the 25 people attending the ceremony and commented that he also helped set up the sanitation system at the U.S. Air Force Academy and used that experience to help in Palmer Lake and said “it was all downhill from here.” (an old joke). Becky Orcutt, district manager, presented a cake with a decoration shaped like a sewer manhole cover and cupcakes. One of the participants joked, “Don’t eat the brown ones.” Photo by Steve Pate.

Stars of Tomorrow Talent Show

By Steve Pate

Monument Hill Kiwanis, in conjunction with Lewis-Palmer School District 38, presented the first annual Stars of Tomorrow talent show March 19 at the Palmer Ridge High School auditorium. Emcees Anna Hacker, 10th-grader at Lewis-Palmer High School, and Dennis Beasley of Monument Hill Kiwanis, introduced the finalists in the competition to a crowd of about 350. Three categories of contestants competed for prizes. Rose Magdalene Helgoth, a fourth-grader at St. Peter Catholic School, won the elementary school category with a vocal performance of Who Will Buy from the musical Oliver and won the $500 elementary category prize. The middle school winner, Eric Lambrech, in sixth grade at Lewis-Palmer Elementary School (competing in the middle school category), performed the Piano Sonata #20, First Movement by Ludwig von Beethoven and won $750. The high school category winner was a bassoon solo by Raleigh Eversole, accompanied by Rob Lambrech on piano. Eversole, a senior at Palmer Ridge High School, won a $1,000 scholarship. The overall winner of the competition, all categories, was Wyatt Hyden, a junior at Palmer Ridge High School who won a $2,000 scholarship. Hyden has performed for a sold-out crowd at Red Rocks Amphitheater. He arranged and performed a guitar solo medley of Van Halen, Chuck Berry, Metallica, and Ozzy Osborne. The talent show was professionally judged for the students of Lewis-Palmer School District 38, grades 1 through 12. As reported in OCN last month, 49 students tried out over three days of preliminary competition to narrow the field to the 20 performers who qualified for the final competition. Steve Pate may be contacted at stevepate@ocn.me Above: Raleigh Eversole, Wyatt Hyden, Erich Lambrech, and Rose Magdalene Helgoth, category winners. Photo by Bob Harrigan.

TLWCC makes beds for needy kids

Above: Members of the Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) helped build beds for needy children on March 18. The 32 members, including Lori Forman, left, and Susan Congdon, right, picked up saws, drills, sanders, and hammers to build the beds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a volunteer group dedicated to building, assembling, and delivering high quality beds for hundreds of needy children in northern Colorado Springs, northern El Paso County, and eastern Teller County. TLWC members also donated cash and bedding sets to outfit the beds. In its 50 years, TLWC has donated over $1 million to local police, school, and other nonprofit organizations in the Tri-Lakes community. Photo by Pam Munson.

Moors and McCumber at TLCA

Above: On March 18, Kort McCumber, left, and James Moors played a post-St. Patrick’s Day music celebration at the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts (TLCA). Moors and McCumber can both trace their family lineage to Ireland. That connection along with annual visits there provide the inspiration behind many of their lyrics and instrumental arrangements that weave Irish history and musical influence. Their set list included John Devoy, about an Irish Republican rebel; the non-instrumental Marjorie that highlights their lush vocal harmonies; Leaving for Cobh, about making the journey to the port of Cobh in Ireland to board a ship for the United States during the Potato Famine of 1840s; and the instrumental Standing Stones. They incorporated a variety of instruments throughout the evening including the Irish Bouzouki, fiddle, banjo, guitar, cello, and keyboard, which displayed the breadth of their musical talents. Information on the TLCA is at trilakesarts.org. Photo by David Futey.

Deer enjoy felled pinon pines

Above: Mule deer dine on the many pinon pine tree mounds in the nursery off Sunburst Drive, Monument, in the late afternoon on March 20. The deer were unperturbed by the chainsaw operators working close by as the forest thinning continued. The large-scale tree felling is part of the second phase of forest mitigation in the area. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.

Monument Rock gains visibility

Above: Forest thinning reveals a highly visible view of Monument Rock from Mount Herman Road on March 20. The area is hardly recognizable now that the scrub oak is cleared and many trees have been cut down. The fresh scent of pine permeates the air along the trails buried under bark debris left over from the fire mitigation project. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.

Odd place to water ski

Above: People gripe about dog (and horse) poop in the Monument Preserve and the debris left after the U.S. Forest Service wildfire mitigation, but a boat a mile in from Nursery Road? More trash to clean up. Actually, the hull appears intact, as does the trailer. But the interior (inset) is trashed and would need serious rework. And there’s no motor. This photo was taken March 21. On March 25, Focus on the Forest—Tri-Lakes arranged for Milo Crawford at The Unstuckables to use his truck to tow the boat to be impounded in Woodland Park. Photo by Steve Pate.

Eversole wins All-State honors

Above: Raleigh Eversole, who recently won the top prize in the High School category in the Monument Hill Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow contest, has also achieved best All-State musician status in four categories—choir, jazz, orchestra, and band. Eversole is in 12th grade at Palmer Ridge High School and plans to attend college next year aiming for a career in music. He sings and plays bassoon and tenor saxophone. On March 22, Eversole led off the Honors Recital at Lewis-Palmer High School with a solo bassoon performance of Elegy for Innocence, accompanied by Rob Lambrech on piano. Photo by Bob Harrigan. Caption by Steve Pate.

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Snapshots of Our Community

Celebrating Marie West’s 100th

Above: Longtime Monument resident Marie West celebrated her 100th birthday on Feb.18 with a party at Trinity Lutheran Church, where she’s known as Grandma because of all the kids she’s taken care of. About 300 friends and relatives attended the party including her three daughters, all eight of her grandchildren and four of her 14 great-grandchildren. Her two great-great grandchildren were unable to attend. West told Our Community News she’s “flabbergasted” that she’s now a centenarian. Her advice to those who want to reach that age? “Just keep busy.” Since retiring and moving to Monument in 1991, she kept busy by helping with home daycare until she was 95. Though not a smoker, West admits to enjoying the occasional margarita. She grew up on a farm in Iowa, and after high school she worked at a munitions factory. When she was old enough to enlist, she joined the WAVES branch of the Navy where she was part of the blimp ground crew handling ropes during takeoffs and landings. Among her jobs after the war was working with the first computers, including UNIVAC. Photos by Michael Weinfeld.

 

Lewis-Palmer D-38 combined band concert, Jan. 31

Above: The Lewis-Palmer School District presented its combined concert on Jan. 31 in the Lewis-Palmer High School auditorium. The Monument Academy Festival Band, conducted by John Patterson; the Lewis-Palmer Middle School Symphonic Band, conducted by Sarah Loyer; the Palmer Ridge High School Wind Ensemble, conducted by Raleigh E. Eversole IV; and the Lewis-Palmer High School Wind Symphony, conducted by Tom Chapman, performed separately. Then the combined band of over 100 musicians, conducted by Eversole, performed two additional pieces. The logistics in transitioning from each band to the next were impressive and involved rearranging chairs and music stands and prioritizing the sequence of band sections to leave their seats in the auditorium to move onto the stage. Highlights included presentations by Patterson and Eversole about the history and evolution of music programs. Eversole began the music program at LPHS before transitioning to Palmer Ridge. Photo by Steve Pate.

“Grandmother” Tree at Fox Run Park

Above: The beloved tree in Fox Run Regional Park known to our Ute predecessors as “Grandmother” appears to open wide her arms to welcome her grandchildren back to the Ute summer home in the Fox Run Park area from the New Mexico gentle winter lands. There is a resting bench near the tree in honor of a contemporary family’s grandmother. It seems many families enjoy the bench on a walk through the park. Grandmother tree seems to enjoy them, too. Do you have fond memories of Fox Run Park? When did you first go to Fox Run Park? Did you bring your children there? Did you take hikes there or play soccer or play on the playground? Friends of Fox Run Park would like your stories and anecdotes about the park. Do you have a fun story or memory you’d like to share with others? Contact the Friends of Fox Run Park at FriendsofFoxRunPark@gmail.com. Photo by Janet Sellers.

Scout seeks to honor WWII vets

Above: A Monument Boy Scout from Troop 17 is raising money to have a sculpture honoring World War II veterans installed at the Town Hall. Colin Saber, a 13-year-old eighth-grader at Monument Academy, wants to move artist Robert Henderson’s sculpture of a P-51 Mustang aircraft from Fort Collins to Monument as part of his Eagle Scout project. Saber says his project was inspired by the recent death of Monument resident Col. Earl Depner (inset), who flew 100 missions in the plane as an Army Air Corps pilot during WWII. Saber wants to honor Depner and other veterans. Saber’s fundraising goal of $55,000 would pay for moving the artwork, installing it at the Town Hall, and other things. You can donate at this website: https://p51monument.com. Photos provided by Colin Saber.

Tri-Lakes Cruisers installs officers

Above: The Tri-Lakes Cruisers Car Club has installed its 2023 officers. They are (from left) Steve Gutman, Secretary; Don Ostrander, Vice President; David Whitlock, President; and Epifanio Maestas, Treasurer. They’re preparing for the club’s 20th Annual Benefit Car Show that will be held Aug. 27. For info on the club visit www.trilakescruisers.com. Photo by Lon Wartman.

Friends of Fox Run Park fundraiser

Above and below: The Friends of Fox Run Park joined Friends of El Paso County Nature Centers in a fundraiser for the new Fox Run Park Nature Center on Feb. 4. Nearly 500 people attended, and with the beautiful weather, they were able to roast hot dogs and marshmallows over a fire bowl at the gazebo. Games, a dog costume contest, and a parade were featured. The wagon-drawn hayrides through the park were a big hit. For more information on the nature center and how to donate, contact maryjolewis@elpasoco.com. For more information regarding volunteer projects in Fox Run Park, contact friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com. Photos by Marlene Brown.

 

Wildfire mitigation

Above: During the first weekend of February, Team Rubicon, a veteran-led disaster response group, conducted training and mitigation operations in northern El Paso County. Using the Monument Meeting House as a classroom, they trained 19 new chainsaw operators and then put them in the field for two days with 12 more experienced chainsaw operators to get practical experience with fire mitigation operations. Over two days, these volunteers removed a dozen dying trees and chipped several thousand cubic feet of scrub oak from a 4-acre lot in the wildland-urban interface. By creating a defensible space around properties, their volunteer efforts greatly reduced the wildfire threat to the entire neighborhood. In the photo, Dave LaRivee and Jack Hughes of Team Rubicon instruct some of their students in how to safely use a pole saw to remove dead branches from ponderosa pines. Caption by David LaRivee. Photo by Sharon Williams.

Ice fishing on Palmer Lake

Above: The town of Palmer Lake was a popular spot for ice fishing on Sunday, Feb. 5. In the background, a Burlington Northern Santa Fe engine can be seen travelling south with coal-filled freight cars. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.

Mardi Gras at the Senior Center

Above: Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Senior Center hosted a Mardi Gras celebration Feb. 21 at the Grace Best location, 66 Jefferson St., Monument. Sue Walker, center director, provided games to entertain guests, and participants brought food, including shrimp creole, beignets, king’s cake, and other delicacies associated with Mardi Gras. Line dancing and other activities followed at the center. To learn about future events at the senior center, please visit https://www.silverkey.org/tri-lakes-events/. Photo by Mack Sharp. Caption by Steve Pate.

CPR/AED/First Aid classes

Above: What will you do if someone collapses in front of you? Or if someone is injured in an accident or an attack? At a Heartsaver CPR/AED/First Aid class, instructor Carley Lehman had students practice when and how to perform basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation CPR compressions and breathing. Then they learned how to use an AED (automated external defibrillator) which can help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. First aid for bleeding and other trauma followed. Finally, the class practiced real-life scenarios as Lehman kept adding twists and interesting variables. Three more classes will be offered in 2023 at Tri-Lakes United Methodist Church (TLUMC): April 8, July 8, and Oct. 14. We hope you will sign up and practice to be ready to help when emergency strikes. Write to André Mouton, leader of the TLUMC Emergency Preparedness Group, at epg@tlumc.org. Pictured: In a practice scenario in the church sanctuary, “a member of the audience at a choir concert” passed out and required emergency assistance. Some CPR class members “treated” the patient while others called 911, got the AED and first aid kit, helped the “distraught friend” of the victim, and shepherded audience members out of the way if they were not trained in first aid and could not help. Photo by Lisa Hatfield.

Wildfire Neighborhood Ambassadors

Above: Residents of Black Forest Park, east of Roller Coaster Road in El Paso County, earned a free chipping day in 2022 when one of their neighbors, Steve Jeroslow, attended the Wildfire Neighborhood Ambassadors class, communicated with his neighbors, and organized the effort. The 2023 class kicked off Feb. 21, and you can still sign up and catch up. This is the third annual presentation of the series, which has trained 60 personnel in 30 neighborhoods in 10 different localities in Colorado, Montana, and Oregon. Tri-Lakes United Methodist Church Emergency Preparedness Group (TLUMC EPG) is a 2020 national award winner in the wildfire mitigation arena and has conducted numerous wildland fire risk reduction projects. EPG wants you to do your homework in your yard and home before a wildfire comes here again! Write to André Mouton, leader of TLUMC EPG, at epg@tlumc.org. Photo by Lisa Hatfield.

Black Forest Boy Scout Chili Supper

Above: Bridger Nelson served chili when the Black Forest Boy Scout Troop 70 held its annual chili dinner on Sat., Feb. 25, at the Black Forest community center. In addition to the delicious chili and accompanying dishes, a silent auction also helped raise funds for the scouts and their community. Photo by Creighton Smith.

Palmer Lake Valentine’s Dinner

Above: On Feb. 11, Palmer Lake hosted a Valentine’s dinner and dance event called “All You Need is Love” at the Town Hall. The Palmer Lake Fun Raisers!, an Awake Palmer Lake committee, hosted the event to raise funds to build concrete steps on the east side of the pedestrian bridge at Palmer Lake. The committee includes Laurie Caves, Cathy Wilcox, Tish Torweihe, Nikki McDonald, and Cindy Graff. Awake Palmer Lake is a 501(3)c organization that fundraises via various events to keep the lake and surrounding areas beautiful. The event featured a dinner donated by former Mayor Nikki McDonald’s company Catering by Nikky along with dance lessons. Attendees could purchase tickets for the dance only or for the full event. In the photo, Caves greets attendees at the front door. For information on upcoming events, see http://awakepalmerlake.org. Photo by Jackie Burhans

Bearbotics at State Champships

Above: Three Monument Bearbotics teams placed in the Colorado FIRST’s State Championship in Fort Collins on Feb. 18. Bearbotics FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Team Beta got the second-place Innovate Award. Team Sigma earned the third-place Control Award, and Team Alpha scored the third-place Design Award. The high school students had to skillfully maneuver their robots through an electrical power substation game field to perform precision technical tasks using autonomous functions, computer vision, advanced software controls, and other techniques while avoiding collisions with the other three robots on the field. Each of the advanced robots was designed and built entirely by students, including the software. Bearbotics coach Jeanette Breton, in photo, was awarded a special Compass Award for giving outstanding guidance and mentorship to the teams throughout the year. Photo by Mike Hinkle.

Wildfire fuels reduction Phase II

Above: BARKO 930B excavators clear large swaths of dense Gambel oak, undergrowth, and some pine trees in the trail areas northwest of the memorial grove and south of Monument Fire Center in the Monument Preserve on Feb. 18-19. The second year of the U.S. Forest Service three-year project is well underway, with large areas already cleared. The project is part of an ongoing effort to reduce fuels that put the area at risk for high-intensity, potentially catastrophic wildfires for the residents living in the wildland urban interface. During Phase 2, trail users are advised to stay at least 300 feet from the areas being cleared because the excavators have been known to throw debris long range. The third phase is planned for winter 2024. For more information, contact the Pikes Peak Ranger District office at 719-636-1602 or visit www.fs.usda.gov. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.

Kiwanis talent show auditions

Dozens of School District 38 students auditioned from Feb. 23-25 for the chance to compete in the Kiwanis Club of Monument Hill’s first Stars of Tomorrow talent show March 19, 2 pm at Palmer Ridge High School. They danced, sang, played musical instruments, and acted at Monument Community Presbyterian Church. Winners of the talent show on March 19 will be split according to school grade. The elementary school winner will earn $500 and the middle school champion will go home with $750. There will be scholarships worth $1,000 and $2,000 awarded to the high school winners.

Contortionist Julia Branch, 11
Drummer Kylie Huffman, 9
Guitarist Wyatt Hyden, 16
Vocalist Rose Helgoth, 9
Bassoonist Raleigh Eversole, 18
Vocalist Rose Helgoth, 9

Photos by Michael Weinfeld

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