Indy - Nov. 1, 2023 Vol 31. No. 43

Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | ALWAYS FREE

A PUBLICATION OF CITIZEN-POWERED MEDIA

HITTING THE FAN Springs Utilities denies most sewage backup claims, and payments are delayed on those costing the most

BY PAM ZUBECK

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CONTENTS

Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | Vol. 31, No. 43 “Tethered Against the Gale” by Brett Andrus

Our mission is to deliver the truth, build community and engage citizens.

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VETERANS DAY PARADE Nov. 4, 2023

MANAGING EDITOR Helen Lewis COPY EDITOR Mary Jo Meade SENIOR REPORTER Pam Zubeck CULTURE REPORTER Nick Raven CONTRIBUTORS

HITTING THE FAN: Springs Utilities denies most sewage backup claims, and payments are delayed on those costing the most

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NEWS THE WIRE: News in brief DECISIONS, DECISIONS An election roundup

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 12 22 22 23 24

CALENDAR PLAYING AROUND ITCHY-O BIG GIGS SIDE DISH

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INDY | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | NEWS

OUTDOOR REC INITIATIVE ADVANCES The Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance recently provided a progress report on its regional planning effort, the Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative.

A task force overseeing the effort was formed in 2021 and is funded through Colorado Parks and Wildlife, which has awarded PPORA an additional $128,000 to complete the plan in spring 2024.

So far, the task force — with representatives from El Paso, Teller and Fremont counties — has evaluated an array of planning documents to glean existing values and goals for the region’s outdoors; developed the Outdoor Pikes Peak Hub with UCCS for communicating outdoor-related information to the public; and conducted a survey of the outdoor industry with the Colorado Tourism Office, among other accomplishments. It also conducted 11 listening sessions in the three counties through online surveying and pop-up outreach events.

“The community engagement stage of this planning initiative has hands down been the most exciting and informative,” said PPORA Executive Director Becky Leinweber. “Hearing directly from the people who enjoy our region’s natural and recreation assets and are invested in the future has been the best part of this multi-stage process so far.”

The initiative is considering engaging Colorado Parks and Wildlife in greater management responsibilities and improving connectivity of trails. A draft plan of the initiative’s activities will go through another round of community engagement in January. Find more at outdoorpikespeakinitiative.org.

COS AIRPORT TRAFFIC UP Colorado Springs Airport (COS) noted a nearly 12 percent increase in passenger traffic in September compared to the same period last year. COS recorded 109,219 enplanements and served 217,748 total passengers, reflecting a continued pattern of growth in 2023, the airport said in a release.

“With 135,993 available seats, which translates to a 13.9 percent increase compared to September 2022, COS has demonstrated dedication to meeting the growing demand for air travel,” the release said.

As the holidays approach, the airport announced nonstop Southwest Airlines flights to three destinations: San Antonio (SAT), San Diego (SAN), and Houston (HOU). These routes will be available for select dates in November, December and January. The Houston service will extend beyond January.

The airport offers discounted parking through a program relaunch that offers 50 percent off daily long-term parking from Nov. 20 to Nov. 26, and Dec. 20 to Jan. 2, 2024.

The airport also has begun its “ElevateCOS” concourse modernization project to upgrade aging terminal infrastructure, increase accessibility and advance sustainability to align the airport with industry standards. For more, go to elevatecosairport.com.

Compiled by Pam Zubeck

Courtesy city of Colorado Springs

THE WIRE

Those with mobility challenges can soon explore trails in Red Rock Canyon Open Space, thanks to the acquisition of two Trackchairs by Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services. Part of the city’s Trails, Open Space and Parks and Therapeutic Recreation programs, the chairs will allow visitors to access designated trails not suitable for regular wheelchairs. The units, which include controls for volunteers or city staff to assist with maneuverability, will be available through a free program next spring. Funding was provided through a Colorado Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Equality grant and the Colorado Springs Office of Accessibility. “We are pleased that the Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department will be able to provide incredible recreational experiences to those with mobility challenges...,” PRCS Director Britt Haley said in a news release. “We are grateful for our partners and their funding to make parks more accessible to the entire Colorado Springs community.”

El Paso County launched its free Trailability Trail Access Program in 2022 with two TerrainHopper off-road vehicles, one each at Bear Creek and Fountain Creek nature centers.

Matter of Record UTILITIES APPEALS TANK RULING On Nov. 14, City Council will hear appeals filed by Colorado Springs Utilities of the Planning Commission’s rulings against Utilities’ Mountain Shadows water tank project.

City Council also serves as Utilities’ board of directors.

At issue is Utilities construction of a 60-foot-tall water tank after filing an initial development plan for a 40-foot tank at 6560 Alabaster Way, designed as a replacement for the old Wilson Tank.

“All I can say is it’s quasi-judicial, and I can’t comment on quasijudicial matters that come before City Council,” Utilities Board Chair Dave Donelson says. Councilors cannot have contact with what essentially are litigants before the public hearing.

The appeals challenge two Oct. 11 Planning Commission decisions — a denial of an amendment to the tank’s development plan, and Utilities’ earlier appeal of a stop-work order issued by city code enforcement on Aug. 30.

“Springs Utilities believes the planning commission decisions are incorrect,” Utilities said in a release, noting that construction began in May and is “near completion,” though work’s been halted since the Oct. 11 Planning Commission rulings.

In its release, Utilities notes the new tank would replace the existing structure built in the 1960s, which has “reached its useful end of life.” The release also called the tank “an essential operational component” of its system in northwest Colorado Springs, which also provides fire suppression support.

Neighbors have told media they’re not opposed to the tank itself, just the height, which increased after the development plan was filed, without proper prior approval.

Bill Wysong, president of the Mountain Shadows Community Association, called Utilities’ move “outrageously wrong,” adding, “The city can’t uphold this.”

Wysong says Lawrence Starr, who lives next to the tank, has obtained internal city documents showing Utilities “knew all along they were wrong.”

“If they approve this, they further piss off the people instead of doing the right thing,” he says of Council.

But Wysong doubts neighbors will prevail, noting the apparent conflict of City Council deciding a matter that involves an agency run by Council.

While he couldn’t think of how to solve the conflict, he says, “There’s got to be some accountability to any board.”

The Colorado Attorney General’s Office reports a record number of domestic violence fatalities — 94 — in the state last year.

Firearms were the leading cause of death.

Frontier Technology Inc. announced Oct. 24 that it will open a secure facility at 2424 Garden of the Gods Road to provide the Department of Defense and other agencies with an environment suitable for developing space-related defense and operations solutions. FTI says the new facility will cost $15 million and lead to the creation of 200 new jobs with an average annual paycheck of $131,000. City Council approved up to $102,590 in performance-based incentives in sales and use tax rebates, which are tied to performance measures over 10 years.

City Council is slated to vote on Nov. 14 on a proposed intergovernmental agreement with El Paso County that would allow the city to clean up homeless camps near the city limits within county enclaves, and bill the county based on hourly staff time and dump fees, plus a 10 percent administrative fee.

Want a say in regional planning? The Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments is accepting comments for its Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, which can be reviewed at ppacg.org/CEDS. Comment deadline is Nov. 19.

Former City Councilor Jill Gaebler, who served from 2013 to 2021, has been named executive director of the Pikes Peak Housing Network by the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC. The goal of the position is to foster innovative and collaborative solutions for housing affordability, attainability and access, the chamber said in a release.

NEWS | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | INDY

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DECISIONS, DECISIONS Nov. 7 election briefs Compiled by Pam Zubeck Photo illustration, assets stock.adobe.com

WORLD PREMIERE OF

NEW films + red carpet gala SAT. NOV 4 4:30 PM

COMMUNITY CELEBRATION All ticket holders are welcome to the lobby party with a cash bar. Celebrate films past & present while networking with local media, academic leaders, & community non-profits.

6:30 PM | DOORS OPEN AT 6:00 FILM PREMIERE + DISCUSSION Watch NEW documentaries and engage in moderated discussions with filmmakers.

The coordinated election, conducted entirely by mail, is Nov. 7. Ballots must be returned by 7 p.m. on Election Day. Voters will decide two statewide measures and local jurisdictions’ ballot measures and elect school board members across the state. El Paso County voters can learn more about the process at clerkandrecorder.elpasoco.com/elections.

4:30 PM VIP RECEPTION Intimate reception with filmmakers of past & present. Wine and hors d’oeuvres included.

LOCAL MEASURES

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Cornerstone Arts Center 825 N Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs

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COLORADO COLLEGE FILM + MEDIA STUDIES

4

INDY | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | NEWS

City of Colorado Springs: The city is asking voters to keep $4.75 million in excess TABOR revenue from 2022 to start a fund to build a new police training academy to train more recruits more frequently in order to build the police force. Opponents say people want their TABOR refunds, and that the police project has no firm cost estimate, no location, no additional identified funding sources and no construction timeline.

City of Fountain: The city is asking voters for authorization to join the Pikes Peak Regional Transportation Authority, which imposes a 1-cent sales tax on residents of member governments to fund roads and transit. Those in favor say the city would benefit from membership by collecting $4.5 million a year for PPRTA, which would be shared back with Fountain. No opposition comments were filed.

Academy School District 20: The district wants voters to increase property taxes by about $35 million a year to fund teacher and staff raises, increase armed security officers in elementary schools, fund building maintenance, and fund charter schools.

Ellicott School District 22: The district wants voters to increase property taxes by $500,000 annually to fund operating and capital needs.

Falcon School District 49: The district wants voters to approve a 7-mill property tax increase of $9.9 million starting next year to provide classroom teachers with raises of at least 7 percent annually for the next seven years.

Joint School District No. 23JT (Peyton): The district wants voters to authorize debt of $8 million for construction of school facilities and increase property taxes by $600,000 annually to fund the debt. A separate measure seeks to increase the TABOR cap to fund the debt.

Find complete explanations for these and other measures involving special districts at tinyurl.com/measures-23.

WHAT’S TABOR? Since both statewide measures and some local measures revolve around the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights, it’s helpful to understand what that constitutional amendment is all about.

Adopted statewide by voters in 1992, after Colorado Springs voters adopted a local TABOR measure in 1991, the constitutional provision limits the amount of new revenue government agencies can collect unless they obtain voter permission to keep it.

The amendment contains allowances for revenue growth due to inflation and population growth, but otherwise limits how much additional revenue can be collected.

There are workarounds, however. A government agency can ask voters’ permission to keep revenues collected above the cap, either forever or for a certain amount of time. Otherwise, the excess funds must be refunded to taxpayers.

For example, Colorado has issued TABOR refunds in 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2005, 2015, 2021 and 2022. The state is expected to issue an additional refund in 2023.

El Paso County and the city of Colorado Springs have also issued refunds in the recent past.

The city has often sought voter approval to retain excess revenue for specific purposes, such as stormwater projects, fire mitigation, and parks and trails. Voters have given the nod in most cases. Those measures generally exempted those excess revenues from future TABOR limits.

Proponents of TABOR argue the measure keeps government growth in check by limiting revenue, while opponents contend that TABOR’s limitations hamstring governments when money is needed to fund services that stem from growth and other factors, especially in times of economic downturn, which results in revenue caps being reset to lower levels.

COMMUNITY

HEALTH

SAVES

LIVES

PROPOSITIONS HH AND II The Colorado Legislature, dominated by Democrats, referred both measures to the ballot.

Proposition HH proposes a formula that would allegedly hold the line on growth in property taxes based on rising property values, and also allow the state to retain and spend the excess state revenue. It also would use some future TABOR tax refund money to offset losses to taxing entities that don’t receive as much revenue as expected from those rising property values and taxes. TABOR refunds would still be issued, theoretically, if revenues rise high enough, but would be smaller than they would be without HH on the books or eliminated entirely.

The measure doesn’t address backfilling taxing entities’ lost revenue if those TABOR refunds don’t materialize, such as during an economic downturn. The mill levy reduction and TABOR backfills would last 10 years.

Proponents say the measure keeps property taxes in check for 10 years.

Opponents say the measure raises taxes by cutting or eliminating TABOR refunds and the property tax relief is limited to 10 years.

Proposition II asks voters to approve retaining and spending state tax revenue — $23.65 million — that otherwise would be refunded to wholesalers and distributors of tobacco products, and to raise tax rates on nicotine products. Those tax rates include increases on a pack of cigarettes up to $2.54 per pack, increasing the cost of a carton of cigarettes by $25.40.

Proponents argue the money at issue would be used to help fund preschool programs and that higher taxes deter tobacco use.

Opponents argue it’s another example of the expansion of government by seeking more tax money for a program that’s already fully funded and that raising taxes on tobacco products impacts lower-income people more than others.

Find complete explanations for both measures at tinyurl.com/HH-II-23.

Learn more about the COVID-19 Vaccine We’re here to help. Visit peakvista.org/COVID.

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But wait, there’s more...

Regional city offices up for reelection on Nov. 7 include an uncontested Ward 2 City Council seat, and two at-large seats on Fountain’s City Council. In addition, Manitou Springs voters will decide the Manitou mayor’s race and elect three atlarge members to Manitou’s City Council.

Voters in 15 school districts will elect board of education members. Those include Academy 20, Big Sandy 100J, Cheyenne Mountain 12, Colorado Springs 11, Ellicott 22, Fountain-Fort Carson 8, Florence RE-2, Hanover 28, Harrison 2, Joint 23JT Peyton, Lewis-Palmer 38, Manitou Springs 14, Miami Yoder JT60, Widefield 3, Falcon 49.

Find candidate lists at tinyurl.com/epco-23 NEWS | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | INDY

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O HITTING

THE FAN Springs Utilities denies most sewage backup claims, and payments are delayed on those costing the most

stock.adobe.com

BY PAM ZUBECK | zubeck@csindy.com

6

N CHRISTMAS DAY IN 2021, Paul and Denise Eckstein received the worst of holiday surprises.

The city’s main sewage line serving the Ecksteins’ Cheyenne Mountain Boulevard home clogged, flooding their finished basement with raw sewage.

Their out-of-pocket cost to repair the damage to their home came to $93,240, and damage to furnishings and personal property cost them another $25,000, according to a lawsuit they filed in October 2022 after Colorado Springs Utilities balked at reimbursing them.

The lawsuit led to a settlement for an undisclosed amount three months later, though a payment of $105,443 by Utilities coincides with dismissal of the Ecksteins’ lawsuit on Dec. 16, 2022.

So it took Utilities nearly a year to reimburse the Ecksteins for the damage.

Then, about eight months later, on Aug. 4, the couple was hit with another sewage backup.

This time, they didn’t wait long before filing another lawsuit on Sept.

21, after encountering “the exact same bad-faith tactics it [Springs Utilities] used after the first sewage discharge in December of 2021,” the latest lawsuit says.

The Ecksteins’ experience is shared by other Utilities customers, some of whom have waited months for reimbursement for damage caused by sewer backups, including an instance where “toilets exploded,” according to Utilities records.

Records obtained by the Indy through a Colorado Open Records Act request show that the more expensive the claim, the longer it took for customers to get reimbursed. One couple waited 609 days to be paid and had to litigate the matter, and two others waited nearly a year.

Average wait time was 80 days.

Which raises questions about why Utilities doesn’t reimburse sooner — and whether the 193 uncompensated customer claims were not legitimate or if those customers simply gave up rather than pursue legal action as a few others did.

Asked about that, Utilities referred the Indy to the city’s claims office, which declined to comment citing the city’s policy to not discuss litigation.

But Utilities CEO Travas Deal tells the Indy by phone that many claims are denied because they’re simply not Utilities’ fault, and ratepayers shouldn’t have to pay for issues arising out of homeowners’ negligence.

That said, Deal says how Utilities reimburses for sewer backups is “something we definitely need to bring to light.

“We’ve got to figure out how to expedite those [payments],” he says.

SPRINGS UTILITIES’ PROBLEMS

INDY | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | FEATURE

with sewage overflows date back years and led to lawsuits and at least one civil penalty.

Most notably, about 20 years ago, Pueblo County filed a lawsuit alleging the city violated the Clean Water Act from 1998 through 2007 by repeatedly discharging raw sewage into Fountain Creek from Utilities’ Las Vegas Wastewater Treatment Plant.

The Pueblo Chieftain reported at the time that Utilities had racked up $370,000 in fines from the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment for multiple sewage spills. The lawsuit led to a compliance decree with state regulators that required Utilities to spend $200 million to rehabilitate its sewer system. The Sierra Club also sued about that time, leading to a civil penalty against Utilities of $35,000.

The sewage discharges also cost the city a measure of goodwill with Pueblo County. When the city sought to build a water pipeline from Pueblo Reservoir, Pueblo County demanded the city agree to spend $460 million over 20 years to control its stormwater runoff, with Utilities paying $69 million of that total. The city’s stormwater enterprise is paying the balance.

The pipeline was activated in 2016.

While stormwater is a different concern from sewage spills, both impact Fountain Creek, which flows to the east side of Pueblo before joining the Arkansas River.

It’s worth noting that the construction permit issued by Pueblo County for the water pipeline also required Utilities to spend $75 million to improve its wastewater system.

Sewage backups from Utilities’ system into homes is a different phenomenon, and have been less frequent than 15 years ago, records show. More on this later.

According to records obtained by the Indy, sewage backup claims haven’t exceeded 35 a year since 2013, though it’s impossible to know how many unreported backups occurred.

Online sources report that some wastewater systems see hundreds of backups per year. (Wastewater authorities in Denver and Pueblo didn’t respond to the Indy’s queries about the incidents of sewage backups in those cities.)

The 272 claims submitted to Utilities from 2013 through August 2023 could be considered a tiny number, considering Utilities’ system serves roughly 152,000 customers in a 195-square-mile area, according to a 2022 Utilities report. The system comprises three treatment plants, 20 lift stations and 1,810 miles of sewer main pipes of various types, including iron, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and concrete. Another type is vitrified clay pipe, some of which dates to 1890 and is “still in use today,” a 2019 Utilities wastewater report says. Utilities says that about 30

percent (approximately 550 miles) of its sewer pipes today are clay.

property but never did.

The case was later dismissed due to the statute of limitations having lapsed, IN 2007, A COUPLE WHO LIVED although the matter is slightly more comin the Broadmoor Bluffs area was greetplicated than that. ed with a basement full of sewage on In any event, the experience left Zook Valentine’s Day, The Gazette reported with a less than rosy view of the city’s at the time. Though Utilities admitted legal department. the backup stemmed from a main line “They spent maximum resources in blockage, the claim was initially denied, the city attorney’s office to deny it,” he because the couple had their service line says. “It’s a total waste of their resources, cleaned three years before, rather than and it’s unfair. It became like a personal the required two years. vendetta on their part. I think they have After their story went public, the Utilian obligation to be fair, and they were ties Board toyed with looking for ways to the idea of imposing a deny it.”

48-cent monthly charge In another case to cover backup damfiled by Joseph and ages for all customers, Echo Abbate, the but the charge was couple alleged Utilinever adopted. ties refused to pay for Also, Utilities used damages caused by a to operate a wastewaJan. 17, 2018, backup SCHEDULE YOUR EYE EXAM TODAY ter insurance program that spewed sewage ABBAEYECARE.COM | 719-257-2713 to which customers to a depth of 4 inches could subscribe. Under in their basement on the program, 44 claims Sandpiper Drive in totaling $152,406 were southeast Colorado paid from 2003 through Springs.

March 2007, according The couple hired a to The Gazette. (That plumber who deterinsurance program mined their service — Paul and Denise Eckstein was abandoned long line was clear and the ago.) backup stemmed from Data from that time a Utilities main-line also showed there were 264 sewage backblockage. But a Utilities claims adjuster up claims in a three-year period — from denied the claim, citing a lack of evi2004 to early 2007 — or about 88 per year. dence of negligence on Utilities’ part The city paid 21, or 8 percent, of those. and noted the blockage was caused by a The payments totaled $132,743, or about nearby apartment complex, the lawsuit $6,321 per claim. recounts.

This was during the time when the “CSU failed to assist Plaintiffs with only way someone could get reimbursed mitigation, repair, or replacement, and for damages was to prove they had their left the Home in an unfinished and service line cleaned within the prior two unsafe condition with raw sewage still years. present in multiple areas,” the lawsuit More recently, from 2013 through says, not citing a dollar figure of the August this year, 272 customers filed damage. claims, and the city paid 79 of those, or 29 The city dragged the case out for percent. The payments totaled $736,878, months, arguing for dismissal based on or about $9,300 each. the doctrine of governmental immunity, So the number of claims received in which District Judge Eric Bentley rejectthe last almost 11 years has dropped ed. sharply from the earlier time frame, and “I have weighed the evidence submitthe number paid increased. ted by the Plaintiffs and the City, and I Utilities refused to disclose names and find ... that the Plaintiffs have offered addresses of those who filed claims, citmore than sufficient evidence to make ing a portion of the Open Records Act out a prima facie case that they suffered that bars disclosure of “names, addressinjuries resulting from the City’s neglies, telephone numbers, and personal gent operation and maintenance of its financial information of past or present sanitary facilities,” Bentley wrote in a users of public utilities.”

March 25, 2019, decision. The same day, Thus, to locate victims of sewer backhe granted a motion for the plaintiffs to ups, the Indy turned to court records and recover their attorney fees from the city, found six lawsuits filed over the last 10 finding the city’s motion “frivolous” and years that allege Utilities failed to make “vexatious.” good on sewage backup damage.

The city appealed.

Dave Zook, a retired deputy district On Sept. 18, 2019, before the appeals attorney, filed a lawsuit in 2015 after Utilcourt ruled, the Abbates sought dismissities first agreed to pay on a claim involval of the case with prejudice, which suging a 2012 sewage backup at his rental continued on p. 8 ➔

[T]he City’s bad faith treatment of its residents is endorsed and approved at the highest levels of the City.

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PIKES PEAK LIBRARY DISTRICT celebrates Veterans Day!

PATRONS of

INFLUENCE

Join us as we discuss the impact of military service and Veterans Day with our panel of Air Force, Navy, Army, and Vietnam veterans from around the community.

Wed., Nov. 15 10 - 11 a.m.

East Library Community Room or Livestream Get a sneak peek at the panel and register at:

tinyurl.com/patronsofinfluence PR-3158 | 2/2023

FEATURE | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | INDY

7

➔ continued from p. 7

gests a settlement had been reached. The case was dismissed the next day.

Court records don’t state if or how much Utilities paid, but claim records show a $23,000 payment was made on Sept. 24, 2019, on a loss incurred on Jan. 17, 2018, the date of the Abbates’ sewage backup, a span of 609 days.

IN ANOTHER CASE, RICHARD and Marsha Broome, who lived in the Old Broadmoor Road area, alleged that on July 2, 2015, Utilities pumped sewage from a main on Cheyenne Mountain Boulevard to a manhole upstream of their home, which then backed up and flooded their basement.

The sewage “contaminated the basement, rendering it unfit for occupancy and hazardous to health and safety. In addition, the sewer backup caused physical damage and destruction to structural elements of the residence (wood framing, drywall, flooring) as well as contents of the basement, consisting of furniture, fixtures, historical artifacts and fine art.”

To make matters worse, the Broomes were on the verge of selling their house, but the backup killed the sale and cost them significant sums to clean up the mess, though no dollar figures are cited in the lawsuit.

The couple hired a restoration compa-

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INDY | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | FEATURE

ny to dry out the basement “at substantial cost,” and the company’s inspection “has revealed that both the drywall and floor covering in the basement contains asbestos and abatement of the asbestos will have to be done before the contamination and structural damage can be repaired and contaminated and destroyed elements can be replaced.”

The lawsuit says that previous spills had invaded the neighborhood, and that Utilities, ironically, told neighbors that installing the main on Cheyenne Mountain Boulevard would prevent future spills along Old Broadmoor Road.

The lawsuit says Utilities denied their claim for the July 2015 backup “in a breach of the obligation of good faith, openness, honesty and fair dealing.”

It’s unknown publicly what became of the claim, because no other filings were made with the court. Land records show the house went to a mortgage lender after the spill.

The Broomes’ claim was one of 193 claims since 2013 that Utilities didn’t pay.

Those that were paid ranged from $40 to $105,443.

Here’s a sampling of the descriptions of claims from Utilities records: • “Toilets exploded.” Payment: $363 five days after the incident.

• “Backflow of wastewater line due to buried main line backup.” Payment: 0.

• “Mainline sewage back up causing damage.” Payment: 0.

• “Damage to entire basement from backup of sewage.” Payment: $12,500 about five months after the incident.

• “City line backed up & flooded bottom level of church.” Payment: 0.

• “[Insurance] did not pay for everything. trying to collect remaining balance.” Payment: 0.

• “WW [wastewater] backup in bathroom after CSU flushed lines with no notice.” Payment: 0.

• “Sewer cleaner truck blew sewage into basement.” Payment: $2,119 two months after the incident.

• Sewage backed up in a basement, and the customer’s plumber found “babies wipes in the drain about 75 feet out and that was in the city main line.... has to have the whole basement ripped up. Just moved into the house on Friday.” Payment: 0.

• “Due to a sewage backup, Claimant has out of pocket expenses of 20k.”

Payment: 0.

• “WW back up when CSU cleaned out sewer line in street.” Payment: $5,700 issued 356 days after the incident.

LESS THAN A MILE SOUTHWEST of the Broome house lies the Ecksteins’ house, the one that’s seen two backups.

As noted earlier, the first happened on

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Christmas Day 2021. According to the lawsuit, the city claims office contracted with AmeriClaim of Southern Colorado and Grand Junction to adjust the claim, but AmeriClaim isn’t registered to do business in Colorado, the Ecksteins’ lawsuit says. (The Colorado Secretary of State’s Office has no current filing for the company. The Indy asked about the city engaging the firm, and the claims office declined to comment.)

Like all homeowners in Colorado Springs, the Ecksteins have no choice but to obtain water and wastewater service from Utilities, they assert in the lawsuit.

“As a monopoly provider of sewage services inside its city limits, [Utilities] owes its customers the highest level of good faith and fair dealing in providing safe and sanitary service to its captive customers,” according to the lawsuit filed by the Ecksteins, who declined the Indy’s request for an interview through their attorney Greg Walta.

Besides their monetary loss, they note, they lost use of their main floor for nearly six months “due to raw sewage smells emanating from the basement and from construction and repair activities.”

Utilities should have provided immediate expert assistance and prompt payment for damage, the Ecksteins’ contend. Instead, Utilities and AmeriClaims “obstructed” them from restoring their

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property to normal living conditions, and ignored their attempts to communicate such that the Ecksteins had to engage a City Council member to get a response to phone calls, emails and text messages, the lawsuit says.

The city then delayed authorization of repairs, and when the repairs were finally authorized, the city refused to pay “with the bad faith intent to create financial pressure on the Plaintiffs to settle their claims at less than fair value.”

Utilities finally settled the claim about a year later, but on Aug. 21, 2023, the same thing happened again. This time, the couple was out of town when it happened, so the sewage might have pooled in their basement for up to three days before they returned, Walta says.

In September, they filed another lawsuit, noting that nothing had been done by Utilities to correct the problem that led to the first main line backup, and then the second.

When the Ecksteins reported the backup and presented a bill for $39,190 for cleanup, “the city engaged in the exact same badfaith tactics it used after the first sewage discharge in December of 2021,” the lawsuit says.

Hopi ng to change that practice, the couple wrote a letter to the city attorney and Mayor Yemi Mobolade this fall, asking them to end the city’s refusal to promptly reimburse homeowners for their losses caused by raw sewage backups. They noted these tactics are “particularly dangerous to the health and safety of poor and middle-income families who lacked the resources to afford a prompt cleanup of the biohazard....”

They got no response. Thus, they contend, in their second lawsuit, “the City’s bad faith treatment of its residents is endorsed and approved at the highest levels of the City.”

The pending lawsuit also accuses the city of “a pattern of willful and wanton misconduct designed to purposely place victims’ health and safety in danger in order to force them to accept a settlement less than their out-ofpocket costs.”

The Ecksteins had entered into settlement discussions with the city recently, but those talks are now “on hold,” Walta reported to the Indy on Oct. 17, because their basement “just tested positive for mold.” Dealing with mold will result in additional mitigation costs, he says.

WHEN THE INDY ASKED for internal reports on the wastewater system that would indicate system problems, Utilities responded to the request saying, “We do not have any report for the information you asked for.”

Utilities offered to provide the Indy with work orders for the claims, at a cost of $60, but those documents also would be scrubbed of customers’ names and addresses, Utilities said, so the Indy decided not to pay.

Asked about the toilet explosion and sewage blowouts, Utilities’ spokesperson Jennifer Jordan says that “occasionally, our crews encounter issues during maintenance and cleaning of wastewater mains that can inadvertently cause ‘bubbling’ to occur in private service lines.”

Suc h “bubbling” usually happens when a tree root or another “obstruction” restricts normal flow, she says.

“We do our best to avoid these situations by troubleshooting the line ahead of cleaning and monitoring pressures during cleaning,” Jordan notes. “If crews are able to detect a possible issue in the line that could result in bubbling, they will continued on p. 10 ➔

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9

SERIOUSLY SICK

R

aw sewage doesn’t just smell bad, it’s hazardous to your health.

The Environmental Protection Agency reports that home sewage backups pose a health risk because raw sewage contains microorganisms, viruses, bacteria and intestinal parasites that can cause serious illnesses, including cholera, dysentery, hepatitis, cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis. For some of these illnesses, no curative medical treatment is available, though symptoms can be treated.

Exposure to disease may persist for months after a backup, because walls, floors and furniture can remain saturated, creating an environment for non-sewage-related organisms to grow, including tetanus, toxic fungi and mold.

Many times, removal of the damaged material, such as carpeting and drywall, is the only option, the EPA says.

The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment warns that contact with contaminated water from sanitary sewer backups can cause skin infections and rashes, and if ingested accidentally via improperly cleaned hands or food preparation surfaces, these contaminants can cause nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea.

Respiratory infections and allergic reactions may also result from inhaling associated airborne microorganisms.

CDPHE also advises that the drying process in an enclosed area, such as a basement or crawl space, can take several weeks, and growth of microorganisms will continue as long as the humidity remains high. If the damaged area is not cleaned and dried properly, a musty odor, signifying the continued growth of microorganisms, can remain long after the sewage overflow.

➔ continued from p. 9

notify all customers connected to the line to proactively cover toilets as a precaution while maintenance is being conducted.”

Speaking more generally, Jordan says that most clogs happen in the 4-inchdiameter customer-owned lines that run from homes to the city’s main line.

“These backups are typically caused by improper disposal of FOG (fat, oil, grease) and other items down drains, tree roots that have infiltrated the service line, and failure to conduct routine maintenance of the service line,” she says. “We recommend professional cleaning of service lines be conducted every two years, but more frequent service line cleanings may be necessary if the customer lives in an area with numerous trees, as tree roots seek moisture, especially during drought.”

Backups that occur in the city’s main lines often stem from service line “issues” that migrate into the Utilities system, she adds.

“This includes FOG and items that are improperly disposed of in wastewater lines or through tampered manhole covers (e.g., towels, lumber, wipes, cement, tools),” Jordan says. “Root infiltration of pipe can also occur. We do our best to prevent backups through regularly scheduled maintenance of our system components. Given the more than 1,600 miles of wastewater pipe we must maintain, as well as the number of access points for obstructions to enter our system — including 33,000 manholes — blockages can and do occur on occasion.”

Jordan also says Utilities has “invested substantially” in the sewer system since about 2008. “At the same time,” she says, “we increased customer outreach and education regarding recommended practices for avoiding wastewater backups in

The state agency recommends using protective clothing, including a face mask and eye protection and possibly a respirator, when cleaning up raw sewage to prevent exposure.

If a spill takes place outdoors, CDPHE recommends removing the affected soil and treating the area with garden lime. CDPHE recovery guidance can be found at tinyurl.com/backup-cleanup.

It’s worth noting that generally, if a backup occurs in a home’s service line before it connects to the city’s main line, it’s the homeowner’s responsibility. If it’s caused by a clog in the main line, the city is responsible.

Standard homeowners insurance policies won’t always cover damages.

The EPA has stepped in when municipal systems have an inordinate number of backups, imposing orders to improve maintenance and operations, and upgrade systems that cost hundreds of millions of dollars. For example, in Hamilton County, Ohio, a 2004 settlement with the EPA required $1.5 billion in improvements to stem sewage backups and do so on a courtimposed schedule.

The EPA reports that sewage backups can be caused by: • Blockages • Line breaks • Sewer defects that allow stormwater and groundwater to overload the system • Power failures • Improper sewer design • Vandalism The agency estimates that there are at least 23,000 sewer overflows in the U.S. per year, not including backups into structures.

— Sources: EPA and CDPHE

READ ANY WAY

YOU WANT 10

INDY | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | FEATURE

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First Friday, Nov 3, 5 – 8 pm NOVEMBER FEATURED ARTISTS: Kathy Parks-Jackson & Al Bach

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Fat, oil and grease buildup in sewer lines can cause backups.

service lines, which represent about 90 I’ve lived the other side of it. I’m very percent of all backups.” sensitive to what these issues cause.”

Utilities’ policy for covering sewageHe’s since made sure there’s a mechabackup damages requires the customer nism called a back flow protector installed to prove the loss, including that the in places he’s lived to prevent a flooding claim is “of a reasonable situation, he says. nature” to restore the In defense of the city’s property to the condireluctance to pay, Deal tion prior to the backup; says, “That’s really to list damaged personal protect the ratepayers’ property, giving each money.” Having a third item’s age, condition and party, the city claims estimated actual cash office and not Utilities, value; and provide the investigate the claims, cause of the backup. he adds, protects rateUtilities’ policy says a payers from “malicious customer’s homeowners intent” on the part of insurance is “primary” those filing claims. “We in covering sewage try to stay separate of backup damage but that that just because we Utilities can make “voldon’t want it to be an untary payments” to unfair and biased procover the deductible or cess,” Deal says.

— Jennifer Jordan up to $12,500 for damUnfortunately, he age to fund immediate says, there are oddities cleaning costs. But the in the wastewater syspolicy requires that the backup has not tem where some homes are tied to the been caused by the customer’s service main sewer line through other homes’ line being clogged and that line cannot sewer line, so sometimes when a backup serve more than one dwelling through 1 happens, it’s not the homeowner’s fault, meter, among other requirements. but it’s not Utilities’ fault either.

The policy no longer requires that “How did that get approved back customers prove their service lines have in the ’70s?” he says, recounting the been professionally cleaned within the “weird” sewer line installations someprior two years, but rather recommends times discovered by Utilities workers. that schedule.

Construction became more standardized in the 1990s, Deal adds.

UTILITIES CEO DEAL IS SYMPAWhile Utilities has established a fund thetic to homeowners who experience from which it can make payments quickbackups, because he’s been there, done ly if a backup is obviously Utilities’ fault, that. While living in another state years more can be done, Deal says. ago as a young Marine, sewage backed up “We need to look at how we can in his basement, and it was a mess, he says. improve on our side of this,” he says.

“My whole basement was full of waste“I’m trying to get trust in the community water,” Deal says. “I didn’t have any in areas we’ve failed at. We shouldn’t money. I didn’t have any insurance that hide behind some excuse. We should covered it. We were throwing stuff away. improve.”

We do our best to prevent backups through regularly scheduled maintenance...

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11

CALENDAR

Your guide to events in the Pikes Peak region

FIRST FRIDAY/ART 45º Gallery, 2528 W. Colorado Ave., Suite B, 719-434-1214, 45degreegallery.com.

Pottery Palooza, 750-plus pieces by 10plus artists. Opening reception Friday, Nov. 3, 5-8 p.m.

Academy Art & Frame, 7560 N. Academy Blvd., 719-265-6694, academyframesco. com. “The Beauty of the Earth,” works by oil painter Joni Ware. Artist reception Friday, Nov. 17, 4-7 p.m.; through December.

Anita Marie Fine Art, 109 S. Corona St., 719-493-5623, anitamariefineart.com. Storied Places, oil paintings that share the intimate emotional relationship between artist and place. Works by Chuck Mardosz, Richard Dahlquist and Joanne Lavender.

Paintings on display refreshed regularly through Nov. 9.

Bosky Studio, 17B E. Bijou St., boskystudio.com. The Jane Doe Project: Studies and Sketches by Lindsay Hand, whose “deeply researched work — focused on power structures and the human spiritual experience — is frequently presented in partnership with institutes and entities outside of the traditional gallery experience.” Through Nov. 17. (Check out Surface Gallery’s November exhibits featuring works by Bosky’s Riley Bratzler and Brett Andrus.)

Citizens Art Gallery at City Hall, works by mixed-media/encaustic artist Melissa Porter. Second floor gallery, 107 N. Nevada Ave.; enter through the ADA entrance on the southeast corner of the building.

Opening reception Friday, Nov. 3, 5-8 p.m.

KE L LA NA ER IO M EAT L PA ECR R

The Colony, 2 S. Wahsatch Ave., #100, thecolony.studio. New work from acrylics/watercolor painter Dan Sampson and multi-medium painter Victoria Wekamp.

Opening reception Friday, Nov. 3, 5-8 p.m.

719-375-1134 • AlpineMJ.com 850 Commercial Ln. • Palmer Lake 12

The Bridge Gallery, 218 W. Colorado Ave., #104, 719-629-7055, thebridgeartgallery. com. Desert Dreams Revisited (with all new art for the month) takes “a different look at the work of Liz McCombs’ desertthemed sculptures which explore the resilience and tenacity of life in arid landscapes.” Opening reception Friday, Nov. 3, 5-8 p.m.; through Nov. 25.

Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College, 30 W. Dale St., 719634-5581, fac.coloradocollege.edu. Día de Muertos, “a celebration of life that demonstrates remembrance, love, and respect for those who have gone before us,” with a community ofrenda, live music and performances, an installation by Cal Duran and hands-on art activities. WednesdayThursday, Nov. 1-2, 4-8 p.m.; free, reservations are encouraged at fac.coloradocollege.edu/events/dia-de-muertos-2023.

First Friday Art Party, 5-8 p.m. Nov. 3, with free admission, art by Adana Dysart and music by Grapefruit Moon. After hours music by Gray Duck Productions starts at 8 p.m. Mi Gente: Manifestations of Community in the Southwest, with works from the FAC collection; through Feb. 3.

FAC museum free days: Nov. 11 and 17.

able Order “place themselves along a continuum somewhere between completely abstract, impressionistic, and representational. Most pieces will embody multiple characteristics depending on the distance from which they are viewed.” Opening reception Friday, Nov. 3, 5-9 p.m.; artist talks Thursday, Nov. 16, 5:30 p.m.

Gallery 113, 125½ N. Tejon St., 719-6345299, gallery113cos.com. Painter Kathy Jackson’s landscapes in oils and Al Bach’s wooden creations. Opening reception Friday, Nov. 3, 5-8 p.m.

GOCA (Galleries of Contemporary Art, UCCS), Ent Center for the Arts, 5225 N. Nevada Ave., gocadigital.org. Launch party for the Fall 2023 print issue of DARIA: Denver Art Review, Inquiry, and Analysis — “meet the editor, staff, and writers, partake of light refreshments, grab your own free copy of the magazine.” Saturday, Nov. 4, 2-4 p.m.; free (RSVP at tinyurl.com/DARIA-party). Martha Russo’s Caesura — “her sculptural investigations appear at once fragile and potentially dangerous, cautioning one away while hypnotically drawing one in — ever closer — for intimate examination.” Through Dec. 2.

Hunter-Wolff Gallery, 2510 W. Colorado Ave., 719-520-9494, hunterwolffgallery. com. November’s featured artist: Sculptor Cheri Isgreen, who will be conducting a demonstration during the opening reception, Friday, Nov. 3, 5-8 p.m.

Kreuser Gallery, 125 E. Boulder St., 719464-5880, kreusergallery.com. Collateral BEAUTY: Part 1, No More Silence by Karen Mosbacher: “My entire life I was told ‘Don’t Tell.’ ... This exhibition is for all the other women who have lived through intimate

“Bully in a Red Tie” by Karen Mosbacher

ART EXHIBIT

Collateral BEAUTY: Part 1, No More Silence “is a beginning and a small part of my story. It’s very personal. I want to tell my history and experience so that it opens a space for others to tell theirs.

No More Silence speaks out about being shamed, controlled, criticized, smothered, and defamed.” Opens Friday, Nov. 3, at Kreuser Gallery, kreusergallery.com. personal terrorism and held these secrets for 12,000 generations.” Magnificent Wild, a collaboration of Audrey Gray (“I am remembering how to look at nature and the world around me through the eyes of a child.”) and Lupita Carrasco (“Magnificent Wild is an invitation to remember and explore the sacred space of childhood.”).

Finding Hope by Melissa Porter: “a reflec-

continued on p. 21 ➔

Commonwheel Artists Co-op, 102 Cañon Ave., Manitou Springs, 719-685-1008, commonwheel.com. 2023 Holiday Market with work by 32 Colorado artists — everything from original artwork/prints to glass and metal art to wearables to soaps and candles. Opens Friday, Nov. 3, and runs through Dec. 28.

Disruptor Gallery, 2217 E. Platte Ave., shutterandstrum.org. Jesse Allan Rozell’s Playtime, works in an ongoing project that “celebrates hedonism, vanity, memory, vibrancy, and chaos — an attractive and sometimes obscured, star-studded view into the men and women of yesterday.”

Opening reception Friday, Nov. 3, 5-9 p.m., with music by Chris Bacavis.

G44 Gallery, 121 E. Boulder St., 720-9510573, g44gallery.com. Whiteout by Rachel Espenlaub, who “developed her unique style of triangle-based geometric abstraction after years of realism painting.” The acrylic works in Greg Johnson’s Unpredict-

INDY | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ART EXHIBIT

“Tethered Against the Gale” by Brett Andrus

Brett Andrus’ Remembering How to be Human: “Starting in March 2020 what it meant to be a functional human being shifted for everyone on this planet. ... We have seen war, economic turbulence, and environmental change. To cope, we silo ourselves into our safe camps on our social media streams, relying on AI to show us versions of what humanity looks like now.” Opens Friday, Nov. 3, 5-9 p.m. at Surface Gallery, surfacegallerycos.com.

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2B November 1, 2023

Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade 431 N. Cascade, Ste. 1 Colorado Springs, CO 80903 Phone: 719.413.1905 E-Mail: parade4va@gmail.com www.cosvetsparade.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Roger Ehrke, President

Greg Roes, Vice President Mark Wild, Treasurer Judy Bailly-Ceciliani, Secretary Jackie Bowen, Board Member Paul Ceciliani, Military Liaison Bev Harms, Band/JROTC Coordinator Laura Wild, IT Coordinator Melissa Malone Terry, Executive Assistant

KEY ADVISORS Jack Artman Linda Coats Cheryle Ehrke Kevin Estrem Al Klayton John Lamerson, Past President and Vice President The activities of the Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade, Inc are fully endorsed by the Pikes Peak Veterans Council.

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AD DIRECTOR Teri Homick ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Monty Hatch, Sean Cassady, David Jeffrey

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OPERATIONS

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Lanny Adams DIGITAL/SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Sean Cassady EVENTS, MARKETING & DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR Tracie Woods

csindy.com

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE COLORADO SPRINGS INDEPENDENT

COLORADO SPRINGS VETERANS DAY PARADE

THANK YOU!

The Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade Board of Directors would like to thank all the generous sponsors that made this year’s Parade possible.

Without the sponsorship from the business community, we would not be able to put on the parade. There is a saying that states, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Well for us it takes a village to put on a parade to honor our military. Thank You does not seem enough to say as many of these Financial and In-Kind Sponsors have been with the parade for over 20 years. The Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade Board of Directors would like to thank all of the sponsors for their generous support that made this year’s Parade possible. Without the sponsorship from the business community, we would not be able to put on the parade.

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

PRESENTING SPONSORS

The City of Colorado Springs* LART Fund (Lodgers & Automobile Rental Tax)* Fox21 News* Colorado Springs Utilities+ FLEXTEC+ Security Service Federal Credit Union* Ent Credit Union Colorado Springs Business Journal+ TD Support Services Corporation+ iHeart Radio+ Dignity Memorial* Franklin D. Azar and Associates, PC* Key Bank* USAA* Cornish & Dell’Olio P.C. Employment Law+ FlexTec+ Infinite Disposal+ Jhomil Bansil - Poster Designer+

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

GOLD SPONSORS T. Rowe Price*

SILVER SPONSORS

Alpine Awareness Wellness Center* Park Avenue Properties* Pikes Peak Association of Realtors*

BRONZE SPONSORS

Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association* La Casita Mexican Grill* Super Quality Cleaners* *Financial Sponsors +In-Kind Sponsors

If you would like to become a sponsor please contact the parade office via email at parade4va@gmail.com or by phone at 719-413-1905

The Colorado Veterans Day Parade proceeds south on Tejon Street, starting at St. Vrain Street and ending at Vermijo Avenue.

HANDICAPPED SPECTATOR PARKING • On Bijou Street between Tejon Street & Nevada Avenue • Handicapped spectators can sit in their car and watch the parade, or watch from outside of their vehicle (their option).

• Handicapped persons may also gain access to the Viewing Stand area at Pikes Peak and Tejon where we can accommodate persons in a wheelchair or those able to navigate bleachers. Use Cascade and Pikes Peak to gain access.

Please call the Parade Office to make these arrangements: 719-413-1905

REGULAR PARKING (CHARGES MAY APPLY) • City parking garage at Nevada & Kiowa, • City parking garage at Nevada & Colorado • City parking garage at Cascade & Bijou • Unhooded downtown parking meter

COLORADO SPRINGS VETERANS DAY PARADE

November 1, 2023 3B

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE COLORADO SPRINGS INDEPENDENT

2023

Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade Line-up

“PATRIOTISM” 1.

El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard

2.

Scout Pack #195 Carrying Parade Banner

3.

USAF Academy Band & Ft. Carson 4th ID Band

4.

Grand Marshal on Military Vehicle: Roger and Cheryle Ehrke

25. Wreaths Across America, Pikes Peak National Cemetery

53. American Legion Post #38

26. Honor Flight of Southern Colorado

55. Fords Independent Company

27. Womens Army Corps (WAC) 28. Mesa Ridge High School Navy JROTC 29. American Legion Post #209

54. Pikes Peak Library District 56. Civil Air Patrol, United States Air Force 57. USAF Academy Preparatory School 58. Kit Carson Riding Club

5.

Ft. Carson Marching Unit

6.

Military Vehicles of Colorado

30. Rocky Mountain Chapter 101st Airborne Division

7.

Society of Military Widows – **Lines Up at Post #5 to Ride Military Vehicle

31. Rocky Mountain Chapter 82nd Airborne Division

59. Disabled American Veterans, Jessie Martinez Chapter #50

32. El Paso County 4-H Miniature Horses

60. Disabled American Veterans Chapter #26

8a. Fox 21 News

33. American Military Living History Association

61. Disabled American Veterans Auxilary

8b. Elementary School Patriotism Essay Winners, Sponsored by Fox 21 News

34. T. Rowe Price

62. American Legion Post #5

35. Peterson Space Force Base Delta One

9.

36. Harrison High School Air Force JROTC

63. Colorado Springs Utilities Veterans’ Employee Resource Group

USAA

10. Combat Veteran Motorcycle Association

37. No Entry

11.

38. Colorado Military Academy JROTC

Vietnam Veterans of America #1075

12. VFW Fountain Post #6461 13. Knights of Columbus Guadalupe Chapter 14. Liberty High School “Pride of The Lancers” Marching Band 15. Air Academy High School Air Force JROTC 16. Sons of Confederate Veterans 17.

Pikes Peak Range Riders Pivot

39. Pikes Peak Marine Corps League 40. Vista Ridge High School “Wolfpack” Marching Band 41. Vista Ridge High School Air Force JROTC 42. Military Order Of The Purple Heart 43. The Pikes Peak Regiment, The Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels 44. Green Knights Military Motorcycle Club

18. National Society of Daughters of The American Revolution, Kinnikinnik Chapter

45. Colorado Sheet Metal Workers

19. National Society of Daughters of The American Revolution, Cheyenne Mountain Chapter

47. Mitchell High School Air Force JROTC

20. National Society of Daughters of The American Revolution & Zebulon Pike Chapter

46. Combined Federal Campaign 48. Filipino American Community of Southern Colorado

64. Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center 65. Doherty High School “Spartan Legion” Marching Band 66. Doherty High School Navy JROTC 67. Battlin’ Betties, Colorado 68. VFW Post #101 69. The Mission Continues 70. Key Bank 71. Colorado Springs Police Department Honor Guard 72. Honor Bell Foundation 73. Society of Air Force Nurses 74. Special Forces Association 75. Falcon High School “Fighting Falcon Regiment Marching Band 76. Falcon High School Space Force JROTC

49. Rampart Range Blue Star Mothers

77. Security Service Federal Credit Union

22. Widefield High School “Gladiator” Marching Band

50. Sand Creek High School “Scorpion” Marching Band

78. The Independence Center 79. Scottish American Military Society Post #1806

23. Widefield High School Navy JROTC

51. Sand Creek High School Air Force JROTC

80. Dan Burtz and Sisko

24. Veterans-Powered Vehicles

52. No Entry

81. First Colorado Top Hands

21. Sons of The American Revolution

4B November 1, 2023

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE COLORADO SPRINGS INDEPENDENT

COLORADO SPRINGS VETERANS DAY PARADE

HHHHHHHHHH GRAND MARSHAL HHHHHHHHHH

M

Command Sergeant Major Roger J. Ehrke Sr.

r. Ehrke started his career in 1964 with the US Army serving in Vietnam.

He completed his service in 1996 as Command Sergeant Major of the 4th Aviation Brigade at Fort Carson, Colorado.

Much of his career was as a leader in aircraft maintenance. He served in Desert Storm/ Desert Shield and was awarded his third Bronze Star Medal. During his time in service, he was awarded the Legion of Merit, three Meritorious Service Medals, the Army Commendation Medal, two Army Achievement Medals, ten Army Good Conduct Medals, the National

Defense Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Southwest Asia Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars in addition to numerous other ribbons, badges and awards. Mr. Ehrke’s Vietnam unit was awarded the Republic of Vietnam Presidential Unit Citation. Roger was selected as the 2022 El Paso County, Colorado Veteran of the Year.

Roger is the president of the Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade board and committee. His passions revolve around veterans and veteran organizations. He is the national vice-president of the Armed Forces Top Enlist-

ed Association (AFTEA), a national organization which is an alliance of senior Non-Commissioned Officers who support all aspects of national security and the men and women who have served. Mr. Ehrke helped establish this organization and has been in a leadership role since its founding in 2003. Roger is also a lifetime member of The Retired Enlisted Association (TREA). His leadership and efforts throughout these organizations have assisted veterans in having a social outlet and places to make friends and keep with happenings in the military and veteran community.

IN REMEMBRANCE Maureen Sherrie (Wolfe) Klayton April 13, 1946 – July 9, 2023 Maureen “Sherrie” Klayton was a board member and advisor of the Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade. She was a key player in selecting the themes and historic elements for many of our past parades. Sherrie was born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey and was a Colorado Springs resident for 45 years. Sherrie was an active Air Force Academy and Colorado Springs volunteer for over 40 years and a retired elementary school teacher.

Sherrie attended Penn State and became an elementary school teacher. In 1977, Sherrie and Alan moved to Colorado Springs when he was assigned to the faculty at the Air Force Academy. Sherrie quickly became involved and deeply committed to serving the Air Force as an active spouse and member of the Academy community.

She was deeply patriotic and took great pride in being of service as a military wife. Over the years, she organized many parties and events for the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. She was an active member of the Air Force Officer’s Wives Club and was given an award for her many years of service as a volunteer at the Air Force Academy Thrift Shop. Sherrie and Alan hosted cadets.

Sherrie exemplified the idea of “Service Before Self”. In ad-

dition to her activities supporting the Air Force Academy, she participated in the Colorado Leadership Council, sang with the Colorado Springs Choral Society, actively supported and volunteered for the Black Rose Acoustic Society, volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House and the gift shop at Temple Shalom.

Sherrie was an awarded photographer and a published writer and had a talent for coming up with the most amazing and creative costumes for costume parties. Always reaching out and sharing sunshine with the people she came into contact with, she would go out of her way to talk to people’s superiors about what a phenomenal job they had done and would always prepare baskets of baked goods for everyone from the trash men to her doctors and of course all her friends and neighbors at holiday time.

Sherrie recognized the value in everyone she met and spoke of and treated each person as if they were special and important. She was genuinely enthusiastic about life and felt deep love for those she knew.

Sherrie is survived by her loving husband, Ret. Brigadier General Alan Klayton and their daughters Jennifer and Lauren.

She will truly be missed.

COLORADO SPRINGS VETERANS DAY PARADE

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE COLORADO SPRINGS INDEPENDENT

November 1, 2023 5B

OND BEYOND BE

YOU THANK THA YOU

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6B November 1, 2023

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE COLORADO SPRINGS INDEPENDENT

COLORADO SPRINGS VETERANS DAY PARADE

We line the street as they march by, our honored family “Corps”, our veterans and the current team, prepared for peace, or war.

The history of our sacred land, is filled with honored deeds, the families who sacrificed, will go where duty needs.

Today’s Parade to honor those, with military pride, the duty call means families too.

The Team stands side by side.

The message here guards all the best, our heroes, tried and true, the uniforms of every style, Ands every color too.

Our freedom rings to herald peace, our forces make it true.

They stand in every crisis, our forces, there for you.

— Tim Churchill

COLORADO SPRINGS VETERANS DAY PARADE

November 1, 2023 7B

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE COLORADO SPRINGS INDEPENDENT

HHHHHHHH ABOUT VETERANS DAY HHHHHHHH

V

eterans Day is a U.S. legal holiday dedicated to American veterans of all wars, and Veterans Day 2023 occurs on Saturday, Nov. 11. In 1918, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in World War I, then known as “the Great War.” Commemorated in many countries as Armistice Day the following year, Nov. 11 became a federal holiday in the United States in 1938. In the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became known as Veterans Day.

ARMISTICE DAY

The Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, marking the official end of World War I. Nonetheless, the armistice date of Nov. 11, 1918, remained in the public imagination as the date that marked the end of the conflict.

One year later, in November 1919, U.S. President Woodrow Wilsonproclaimed Nov. 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day. The day’s observation included parades and public gatherings, as well as a brief pause in business and school activities at 11 a.m.

On Nov. 11, 1921, an unidentified American soldier killed in the war was buried at Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C. On the same day the previous year, unidentified soldiers were laid to

rest at Westminster Abbey in London and at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

FROM ARMISTICE DAY TO VETERANS DAY

American effort during World War II saw the greatest mobilization of the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force in the nation’s history (more than 16 million people); some 5.7 million more served in the Korean War. In 1954, after lobbying efforts by veterans’ service organizations, the 83rd U.S. Congress amended the 1938 act that had made Armistice Day a holiday, striking the word “Armistice” in favor of “Veterans.”

President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the legislation on June 1, 1954. From then on, Nov. 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

The next development in the story of Veterans Day unfolded in 1968, when Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill, which sought to ensure three-day weekends for federal employees—and encourage tourism and travel—by celebrating four national holidays (Washington’s Birthday, Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Columbus Day) on Mondays.

The observation of Veterans Day was set as the fourth Monday in October. The first Veterans Day under the new law was Monday, Oct. 25, 1971; confusion ensued, as many states disapproved of this change, and continued to observe the holiday on its original date.

In 1975, after it became evident that the actual

Wondering what to to this weekend?

date of Veterans Day carried historical and patriotic significance to many Americans, President Gerald Ford signed a new law returning the observation of Veterans Day to Nov. 11 beginning in 1978. If Nov. 11 falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the federal government observes the holiday on the previous Friday or following Monday, respectively.

REMEMBRANCE DAY

Great Britain, France, Australia and Canada also commemorate the veterans of World War I and II on or near Nov. 11: Canada has Remembrance Day, while Britain has Remembrance Sunday (the second Sunday of November). In Europe, Great Britain and the Commonwealth countries it is common to observe two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. every Nov. 11.

In the United States, an official wreath-laying ceremony is held each Veterans Day at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, while parades and other celebrations are held in states around the country.

Veterans Day is not to be confused with Memorial Day—a common misunderstanding, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Memorial Day (the fourth Monday in May) honors American servicemembers who died in service to their country or as a result of injuries incurred during battle, while Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans— living or dead—but especially gives thanks to living veterans who served their country honorably during war or peacetime.

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8B November 1, 2023

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE COLORADO SPRINGS INDEPENDENT

COLORADO SPRINGS VETERANS DAY PARADE

CALENDAR FILM

cospringskwanzaa.org.

Youth Documentary Academy World Premiere of New Films and red carpet gala, with debuts of short film projects by YDA students. Saturday, Nov. 4, 4-6 p.m.; see tinyurl.com/YDA-23 for tickets; Cornerstone Arts Center/CC, 825 N. Cascade Ave.; youthdocumentary.org.

Japanese Cultural Festival & Bazaar, with traditional Japanese performances, martial arts, taiko drumming and food; bazaar with housewares, second-hand kimonos, anime, pottery and calligraphy.

Saturday, Nov. 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; UCCS University Center, 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway; tinyurl.com/Japanese-fest23.

KIDS & FAMILIES Balloonacy, “a red balloon drifts through the window of a solitary old man’s home.

But then some serious silliness begins....”

Through Nov. 19; Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, 30 W. Dale St., fac.coloradocollege.edu.

Volcano Island, a “quirky, educational show for kids features molten lava, rocksolid science and a romantic coconut.”

Demos after performances. Saturday, Nov. 11, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Fountain Creek Nature Center, 320 Peppergrass Lane, Fountain theatreacrossborders.com.

“Into the Light” by Nancy Stage Robinson

ART EXHIBIT

Transformation — A Mixed Media Event, with works by Nancy Stage Robinson.

“Working in a wide variety of mediums ranging from painting to sculpture, and everything in between, her art is both lyrical and controlled, and showcases her passion for color and composition.” Opening reception Friday, Nov. 3, 5-8 p.m.; Cottonwood Center for the Arts, cottonwoodcenterforthearts.com.

➔ continued from p. 12 tion of a time in my life when I was going through a bitter divorce from my abusive husband and fighting a custody battle I did not see coming.” Opening reception Friday, Nov. 3, 5-9 p.m.; through Nov. 24.

Artist talks: Porter, Nov. 10, 5:30 p.m.; Mosbacher, Carrasco and Gray, Nov. 15, 5:30 p.m.

The Look Up Gallery, 11 E. Bijou St. (inside Yobel), thelookupgallery.com. Flow State, new work (and an innovative new technique) by Springs artist Nathan Travis.

Opening reception Friday, Nov. 3, 5-9 p.m. with music by DJ Rocky Ross.

Manitou Art Center, 513/515 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 719-685-1861, manitouartcenter.org. Works by local artist Gary King, plus Handmade Holiday Market.

Opens Friday, Nov. 3, 5-8 p.m., includes music by Roma Ransom.

Platte Collections, 2331 E. Platte Place, 719-980-2715, plattecollections.myshopify.com. First Friday Cocktail Hour with works by artist/visual storyteller Shannon Dunn, who is a painter, sculptor and creator of installations. Friday, Nov. 3, 4-6 p.m.; through December.

Surface Gallery, 2752 W. Colorado Ave., 719-359-6966, surfacegallerycos.com. A husband-and-wife show... The Heralds of Unwanted Wisdom by Riley Bratzler: “On July 31, 2022 her brother was killed, forever changing the course of her life. Drawing inspiration from historical alchemy manu-

scripts, this body of work plays with the idea of anthropomorphic deities as messengers of the lessons she has learned in coping with her loss.” Brett Andrus’ Remembering How to be Human (see left).

Opens Friday, Nov. 3, 5-9 p.m.; artist talks Nov. 14, 5:30 p.m.

True North Art Gallery, 31 E. Bijou St., 719471-3809, truenorthartgallery.com. Oneday ceramics popup with local clay artist Jacob Scott; Saturday, Nov. 4, 4-7:30 p.m.

ZoneFIVE, 1902 E. Boulder St., zonefivecs. com. Daydreams and Night Lights, a juried photography exhibition presented by Radiant Aberration and ZoneFIVE that “explores the creative imagination. What oddity or mirage do you picture during the day? Have you captured apparitions or things that go bump in the night?”

Through Nov. 30.

DANCE Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs by Kyiv Grand Ballet, the prime dancers from the National Opera and Ballet of Ukraine.

Tuesday, Nov. 7, 7 p.m.; Pikes Peak Center, 190 S. Cascade Ave.; pikespeakcenter.com.

When Night Meets Day, “Ormao as artists in residence at Pikes Peak State College for Fall 2023 culminates in this repertory show with professionally choreographed work connecting Ormao dancers with current PPSC students and alumni.” Friday-Sunday, Nov. 10-12; PPSC Centennial, 5675 S. Academy Blvd.; tinyurl.com/PPSC-Ormao.

Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour, “Shout out your favorite vehicles, shake out all the wiggles, and OJ Twist your way through this brand-new musical party!” Nov. 12, 2 p.m.; Pikes Peak Center, 190 S. Cascade Ave.; pikespeakcenter.com.

POETRY & PROSE Creative Writing Residency Lecture, visiting poet erica lewis “will read from her newly released book, mahogany. She will be joined in a special public reading by poet friends in an artist’s evening exploring grief and joy in their collective poetic works.” Thursday, Nov. 7, 7 p.m.; Heller Center/UCCS, 1250 North Campus Heights; heller.uccs.edu/events.

THEATER Antigone, Sophocles’ classic tragedy — “A city on the brink of anarchy. A family torn apart. A woman ready to defy the law.” — presented by UCCS Theatre Company, directed by the Millibo Art Theatre’s Birgitta De Pree. Nov. 3-12; tinyurl.com/UCCS-Antigone.

The Belle of Amhurst, a one-woman performance based on the life of poet Emily Dickinson, set between 1830 and 1886 at her home in Massachusetts. Nov. 2-12; Millibo Art Theatre, 1626 S. Tejon St.; see themat.org for times and tickets.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, presented

by Funky Little Theater Co., tells Washington Irving’s classic tale of superstitious schoolmaster Ichabod Crane and his encounter with the Headless Horseman.

Nov. 3-4 at Ute Pass Cultural Center, 210 E. Midland Ave., Woodland Park; tickets, tinyurl.com/Funky-Ichabod.

Trap, a psychological documentary thriller presented by the Mitchell High School Performing Arts Department. “Every person in the audience of a high school play falls unconscious — every person but one.”

Thursday-Saturday, Nov. 9-11, 7 p.m.; Potter Street Theater at Mitchell High, 1205 Potter Drive; mitchelldrama.org.

NaNoWriMo 2023, National Novel Writing Month starts today (Nov. 1), when writers around the world hunker down to produce 50,000 words of a novel in 30 days.

On Saturdays, 1-3 p.m., PPLD’s Rockrimmon branch will host national NaNoWriMo reps who will offer resources, strategies and encouragement. Sessions will be Nov. 4, 11, 18 and 25; the Thank God It’s Over party is Dec. 2. 832 Village Center Drive; see nanowrimo.org, and follow ppld. org/programs for Rockrimmon for info on Saturday sessions.

SPECIAL EVENTS Noche de los Muertos 2023 — “Tradition and celebration collide in a vibrant explosion of music, dance, and remembrance.”

Thursday, Nov. 2; 7 p.m.; all ages; Lulu’s Downstairs, 107 Manitou Ave.; lulusdownstairs.com.

COS Vegan Restaurant Week, offering “special vegan items, menus, and/or discounts.” Nov. 1-12; find participating restaurant list at tinyurl.com/veganweek-23.

Colorado Springs African Marketplace and Cultural Festival, with exhibits, poets, spoken-word artists, storytellers and African drummers and dancers. Includes a pre-Kwanzaa African market with cultural art, clothing and crafts for sale.

Saturday, Nov. 4, noon to 4 p.m.; Hillside Community Center, 925 S. Institute St.;

FOR FULL EVENT LISTINGS, AND TO SUBMIT YOUR OWN EVENTS, GO TO CSINDY.COM!

ART EXHIBIT

“The Jester” by Dan Sampson

Springs-based painter Dan Sampson works mostly with acrylics, and has “a particular affinity for reimagining classic tales and stories, infusing them with unique and sometimes simple twists or alterations, often showing reflections of ourselves.” Opening reception Friday, Nov. 3, 5-8 p.m., The Colony, thecolony.studio.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | INDY

21

PLAYING AROUND Courtesy ITCHY-O

SHOW PREVIEW

MINDLESS VITALITY - DEC 8 (ON SALE NOW) JON WAYNE & THE PAIN - DEC 15 (ON SALE NOW) YOUNG DUBLINERS - MAR 3 (ON SALE NOW) Thu, Nov. 2 - 7:00pm

STRUNG SHORT EUPHORIA, BROTHER NASTY Fri, Nov. 3 - 7:00

JOE HERTLER & THE RAINBOW SEEKERS GRAHAM GOOD & THE PAINTERS, MOON VEIL Sat, Nov. 4 - 8:00pm, Ages 21+

GIMME GIMME DISCO A DANCE PARTY INSPIRED BY ABBA Mon, Nov. 6 - 7:00pm

LUCKY

BY CHOICE LATE NIGHT SAVIOR, ACACIA RIDGE, AUGHTER Sat, Nov. 11 - 7:00pm

OVIRA

SIGHTLYNE, LAVA GATO, ARCTIC ORIGINS Thu, Nov. 16 - 7:00pm

FRENSHIP TOWNIE Fri, Nov. 17 - 7:00pm BANDWAGON PRESENTS

KOLBY COOPER WITH SPECIAL GUESTS Sat, Nov. 18 - 6:00pm

ALESANA

LIMBS, VAMPIRES EVERYWHERE, ACROSS THE WHITE WATER TOWER Sun, Nov. 19 - 7:00pm

SLOTHRUST PRONOUN Sat, Nov. 25 - 6:00pm

BLEED YOURSELF ALBUM RELEASE SHOW

MOUTH FOR WAR MUGSHOT, CANDY APPLE,

ITCHY-O

@ Mercury Cafe, Denver

W

HEN YOU STOP TO think about it, there really aren’t all that many masked, avantgarde, guerilla-style drum corps that are ready, willing and able to perform live on a regular basis.

Actually, there would be none were it not for ITCHY-O, Denver’s largest and most innovative musical performanceart collective, who’ve been at it now for more than a decade.

And while the group’s 50-plus cast of musicians, dancers and special-effects artists has continued to evolve — as has their genre-jarring musical repertoire — there are certain elements that their loyal fans have come to expect.

Like, for instance, the thundering

taiko drummers, the Chinese New Year lion dancers, the electric guitar, synthesizer and theremin players (who all roam through the crowd with battery-powered amps strapped to their backs), and, of course, those stealthy ninjas who sneak up behind you, as ninjas do, when you’re least expecting them.

ITCHY-O’s origins were comparatively humble, beginning with their selfreleased album, Pulmonic, a darkly atmospheric collection of tracks built around samples of animal-heart noises from a well-worn album they found in a Denver thrift store. Against all expectation, it went on to sell more copies than Taylor Swift. (Just kidding.)

The group has since gone on to appear on bills with their role models The Resi-

dents (whose penchant for masked anonymity they share), lead ceremonial processions in Tanzania, and perform “Road to Nowhere” onstage with St. Vincent and David Byrne, whose band Talking Heads they number among their greatest musical influences.

To get a better idea of what ITCHY-O’s live shows look and sound like today, you can check out their Sypherlot/Hallowmass 2020, a double album with accompanying videos that was released a while back on Jello Biafra’s Alternative Tentacles label.

Trust us when we say it will be an experience like no other: wildly experimental, musically innovative, and yes, there will be tarot readings. In other words, fun for the whole family, just as long as the whole family is 18 or over. — Bill Forman

ITCHY-O’s 9th Annual HallowMass: Echoes from the Āoth, Friday, Nov. 3 & Saturday, Nov. 4, Mercury Cafe, 2199 California St., Denver, $37-$48.82, ages 18-and-over, itchyo.com; listen at tinyurl.com/ITCHY-23

SEWERSLIDE, BACKLIP Wed, Nov. 29 - 6:00pm

FIT FOR AN AUTOPSY, EXODUS DARKEST HOUR, UNDEATH

Thu, Nov. 30 - 7:00pm, Ages 18+

RENE VACA WITH SPECIAL GUESTS

FRI, DEC. 1 - 8:00pm, Ages 21+

THE EMO NIGHT TOUR DEC 2 - CRASH TEST DUMMIES DEC 8 - MINDLESS VITALITY DEC 7 - HAIL THE SUN DEC 9 - WEDNESDAY 13 DEC 15 - JON WAYNE & THE PAIN

1-866-468-3399

22

WEDNESDAY 11/1

FRIDAY 11/3

Deirdre McCarthy & Friends, singersongwriter/fiddle player; 6:30 p.m., Front Range Barbeque, frbbq.com/ events.

Balanced Rock Band, rock; 6 p.m., Buffalo Lodge, bicycleresort.com.

The Burroughs, “sweaty soul music,” with iZCALLi; doors 7 p.m., Lulu’s, lulusdownstairs.com.

Countywyde, bluegrass; 6 p.m., Mash Mechanix, mashmechanix.com/events.

Funky Friday, funk jam; 7 p.m., Summa, dizzycharlies.com.

Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers, “Adult Semi-Spiritual Quasi-Secular Inspirational Post-Motown Folk Rock band from Michigan,” with Graham Good & The Painters, Moon Veil; 7 p.m., Black Sheep, blacksheeprocks. com.

Honey Revenge, pop-rock, with Polly-

THURSDAY 11/2 Andrew Finn Magill & Alan Murray, Irish fiddle/funk/jazz; 4 and 7 p.m., Glen Eyrie Castle & Conference Center, gleneyrie.org/our-event/irish-fiddler-concert.

Noche de los Muertos, “explosion of music, dance, and remembrance ”; doors 6 p.m., Lulu’s, lulusdownstairs.com.

Strung Short, pop-punk, with Euphoria, Brother Nasty; 7 p.m., Black Sheep, blacksheeprocks.com.

INDY | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

anna, Colorblind; 6:30 p.m., Vultures, vulturesrocks.com.

Kirk Larson Trio, variety; 8 p.m., Armadillo Ranch, manitouarmadilloranch. com.

Randy Stephens, Stevie Ray Vaughan tribute; 7 p.m., Stargazers Theatre, stargazerstheatre.com.

Tava Blue, rock; 7 p.m., Crystola Road House, facebook.com/CrystolaColorado/events.

TRAPT, “The Fall” tour/rock, with Aughter, Sabbatar, Glass Helix; 6 p.m., Sunshine Studios Live, sunshinestudioslive. com.

WireWood Station, Americana; 8 p.m., Buzzed Crow Bistro, buzzedcrowbistro.com.

PLAYING AROUND

Courtesy Honey Revenge

Amoré, originals/jazz; 6 p.m., Buffalo Lodge, bicycleresort.com.

Arch Echo, “instrumental, progressive fusion,” with Stellar Circuits; 8 p.m., Vultures, vulturesrocks.com.

Big Dopes, indie rock, with Bryse Taylor, BROTH; doors 7 p.m., Lulu’s, lulusdownstairs.com.

The Copper Children, folk; 9 p.m., Armadillo Ranch, manitouarmadilloranch. com.

Henrique De Almeida Triplicate, jazz; 8 p.m.; Wild Goose Meeting House, wildgoosemeetinghouse.com/#events.

Forever Wild Band, rock/country/bluegrass; 5 p.m., Colorado Mountain Distillers, Guffey, colomtndistillers.com.

Gimme Gimme Disco; 8 p.m., Black Sheep, blacksheeprocks.com.

Goya, covers; 8 p.m., Buzzed Crow Bistro, buzzedcrowbistro.com.

Brandon Henderson, singer-songwriter; 6 p.m., Palmer Lake Pub, palmerlakepub.net/events-1.

Martini Shot, horn-powered pop-rock, with Grizzly Gopher; 7 p.m., Stargazers Theatre, stargazerstheatre.com.

The Petty Nicks Experience, music of Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers and Stevie Nicks/Fleetwood Mac; 7 p.m., Boot Barn Hall, bootbarnhallco. com.

Redraw the Farm, multigenre; 8 p.m., Mother Muff’s, mothermuffs.com/calendar.

Cameron Sacky Band, “Texas band with a country soul”; 7 p.m., Oskar Blues, coloradosprings.oskarbluesfooderies.com.

TAUNT, metal, with Polish, Mirkwood, Sum Beaches; 7:30 p.m., What’s Left Records, whatsleftrec.com.

Twenty Hands High, country/Americana/rock; 6 p.m., Whiskey Baron Dance Hall & Saloon, tinyurl.com/ whisk-dh.

Tchaikovsky, classical/Colorado Springs Philharmonic; 7:30 p.m., Pikes Peak Center, csphilharmonic.org.

Pop-rock duo Honey Revenge play Vultures on Friday, Nov. 3.

WireWood Station, Americana; 7 p.m., Abby’s Irish Pub, abbysirishpub.com.

SUNDAY 11/5 Noah Gundersen, indie folk, with Zander Hawley; doors 7 p.m., Lulu’s, lulusdownstairs.com.

Tchaikovsky, classical/Colorado Springs Philharmonic; 2:30 p.m., Pikes Peak Center, csphilharmonic.org.

Traditional Irish music; 3 p.m., Jack Quinn’s, facebook.com/jackquinns.

MONDAY 11/6 LOOK’EE HERE!, blues; 5:30 p.m., Armadillo Ranch, manitouarmadilloranch.com.

Lucky by Choice, garage rock, with Late Night Savior, Acacia Ridge, Aughter; 7 p.m., Black Sheep, blacksheeprocks. com.

Chris Pureka, singer-songwriter, with Avery Marshall; doors 7 p.m., Lulu’s, lulusdownstairs.com.

WEDNESDAY 11/8 Blue Frog, covers/originals/multigenre; 6:30 p.m., Front Range Barbeque’s 23rd anniversary party, frbbq.com/ events.

“A Night at the Opera” with baritone Jonathan Hays, Pikes Peak Opera League; 5 p.m., St. Paul’s Catholic Church, tinyurl.com/night-opera.

THURSDAY 11/9 The Fooz Fighters, Foo Fighters tribute; 7 p.m., Boot Barn Hall, bootbarnhallco. com.

Poetrio, live poetry and jazz improv; 7:30 p.m., Summa, dizzycharlies.com.

BIG GIGS

The Belle of

Amherst

Award Winning Actress Jessica Robblee delves into the mystery of one of the world’s greatest poets – Emily Dickinson.

“Robblee captures Dickinson’s blend of intelligence, inquisitiveness, and underlying melancholy with an astonishing degree of success.” – On Stage Colorado

Upcoming music events

“Not to be missed !”

8 SHOWS ONLY

THU-FRI-SAT-SUN

NOV 2-12

Courtesy Wednesday 13

SATURDAY 11/4

Wednesday 13 (Joseph Michael Poole) and friends will celebrate his work with Murderdolls on Saturday, Dec. 9, at The Black Sheep.

Abraham Alexander, Larimer Lounge, Denver, Nov. 1 Great Lake Swimmers, Globe Hall, Denver, Nov. 1 Aaron Lewis, Pikes Peak Center, Nov. 1 Meshell Ndegeocello, Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom, Denver, Nov. 1 Meshell Ndegeocello, Boulder Theater, Boulder, Nov. 2 Veeze, Cervantes’ Other Side, Denver, Nov. 1 ZHU, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison, Nov. 1 Chat Pile, Bluebird Theater, Denver, Nov. 2 Kirk Franklin, Bellco Theatre, Denver, Nov. 2 Lauryn Hill and Fugees, Ball Arena, Denver, Nov. 2 Lotus, Meow Wolf, Denver, Nov. 2 Switchfoot, Ogden Theatre, Denver, Nov. 2

Ben Howard, Mission Ballroom, Denver, Nov. 3 Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers, Black Sheep, Nov. 3 Los Tigres del Norte, Bellco Theatre, Denver, Nov. 3 Dan Rodriguez, Soiled Dove Underground, Denver, Nov. 3 Deadmau5, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison, Nov. 3-4 Nessa Barrett, Boulder Theater, Denver, Nov. 4 Margaret Glaspy, Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox, Denver, Nov. 4 Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Mission Ballroom, Denver, Nov. 4 ZZ Ward, Gothic Theatre, Englewood, Nov. 4 Tchaikovsk y/Colorado Springs Symphony, Pikes Peak Center, Nov. 4-5 Anjunadeep, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison, Nov. 5 Continued at csindy.com

The RiP Improv!

Presenting unscripted laughs for 18 years!

NOV 18

Please Support Original Local Live Theatre Donate to The Millibo’s 2023 Give! Campaign

www.givepikespeak.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | INDY

23

Appetizers PAID ADVERTISEMENT | TO PLACE YOUR ENTRY CALL 719-577-4545

AMERICAN TONY’S

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THE TURN OF THE CENTURY

Winners of 70+ Independent “Best of Awards” in 20 yrs. A great Midwestern Tavern with warm beer, lousy food & poor service!!! Pabst, Fried Cheese Curds, Leinenkugle’s, Walleye Fish-fry, cocktails, burgers and more. 11am-2am daily. HH 4-6. GO PACK GO!

STORY BY MATTHEW SCHNIPER Food design by Chef and Culinary Director Mark Henry, images by Inez Fitzgerald

OVER A QUINTILLION SERVED

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22 S. TEJON ST. | 719-630-1167 COLORADO’S FINEST JAPANESE CUISINE & SUSHI BAR

Beautiful, award-winning downtown restaurant with a full-service bar.

Enjoy authentic sushi & creative rolls, teriyaki, tempura, udon & more! See our ad or call for great lunch, Happy Hour, & Ladies night specials! Fri. & Sat. 11am-2:30pm lunch & 5-10pm dinner. Sun. 5-9pm dinner.

BBQ BIRD DOG BBQ

3 LOCATIONS + CATERING | BIRDDOGBBQ.COM | 719-573-7671

Bird Dog now offers online ordering from the location of your choice!

Order and pay online, then skip the line when you pick it up! Visit our website at www.BirdDogBBQ.com and click ORDER ONLINE to place your order. We also offer our award-winning catering services in individuallyboxed meals! Call 719-573-7671 for details.

GERMAN EDELWEISS RESTAURANT

34 E. RAMONA AVE. | (SOUTH NEVADA & TEJON) | 719-633-2220

For 50 Years Edelweiss has brought Bavaria to Colorado Springs. Using fresh ingredients, the menu invites you to visit Germany.

Support local business! We’re open and doing drive-thru and takeout with a limited menu that can be found on our website! www. edelweissrest.com.

SOUTHWESTERN/MEXICAN JOSÉ MULDOON’S

222 N. TEJON ST. | 719-636-2311 | 5710 S. CAREFREE CR @ POWERS | 719-574-5673

Since 1974. Features authentic Tex-Mex & Mexican fare in contemporary Sante Fe-styled establishment. Across from Acacia Park, and west of Powers & Carefree. Josemuldoons.com. Support local restaurants! We are open for delivery, carry out, and dine-in at both locations! Please check our Facebook page for hours daily, as they are subject to change.

STEAKHOUSE THE FAMOUS

31 N. TEJON ST. | DOWNTOWN | 719-227-7333

Colorado Springs’ finest upscale steak house and lounge located in the center of downtown. Dine in an elegant and classic steak house environment. Award winning prime steaks, fresh seafood, premium wines, craft brews and piano bar provide a provocative mix of atmosphere and entertainment. Reservations suggested.

MACKENZIE’S CHOP HOUSE

128 S. TEJON ST. HISTORIC ALAMO BUILDING | DOWNTOWN | 719-635-3536

Offering half off all bottles of wine under $100! Voted Best Power Lunch, Steakhouse and Martini! Downtown’s choice for quality meats and mixed drinks. Mackenzieschophouse.com. Open Mon.-Fri. 11:30am-3pm for lunch, and 5pm- close every day for dinner!

PAID ADVERTISEMENT • 719.577.4545 24

INDY | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

FOLKLORE SHUTTERS AND THE WOBBLY OLIVE SET TO REPLACE KELLEY’S SPIEDIE SHOP Hot lobster dip with Old Bay crostini and Worcestershire gastrique

F

OLKLORE IRISH PUB CEASED OPERATIONS EARLY LAST MONTH at 26 S. Wahsatch Ave. after just a little over six months in business. The attached Tipperary Cocktail Parlor, operated by Sean and Inez Fitzgerald (in the former Triple Nickel Tavern space) remains open, as does Brother Luck’s The Studio upstairs — though it has closed for regular restaurant service and shifted to private events.

The Fitzgeralds, who operate The Wobbly Olive and Allusion Speakeasy — and (transparency note) with whom I co-present a monthly Bar Battle series at Tipperary — partnered on Folklore with Luck, who operates IV by Brother Luck. Folklore had taken over the space that was formerly Lucky Dumpling, which Luck opted to close at the beginning of 2023.

Speaking to Side Dish on this most recent closure, Luck says “It’s simply a volume number, where we were spending more money than we were bringing in… we had to be realistic about the situation. We didn’t want to let this go any further into the cold season, to where employees wouldn’t have the opportunity to find another position.”

Fitzgerald said they were reaching out to all their contacts to help re-home employees, and he noted he would be able to retain some for The Wobbly Olive and that Luck would try to absorb some.

“It’s just unfortunate that our ambition and our hopes sometimes don’t match the economy,” Luck says. “I think we were a tad bit premature on that corner. So much residential is coming into that market. It’s going to be a social corner. But right now it’s still a destination location.”

I ask Luck what else he’s got going on right now. He mentions:

• IV by Brother Luck launched a new menu in mid-October.

• He spends a good deal of time these days wearing his volunteer hat, helping Pikes Peak United Way open its Family Success Center in the former Pikes Peak Elementary School in the Southeast. He says they’re exploring the possibility of creating a hospitality program there, especially given the success of Shovel Ready at The Well in helping ease the industry’s labor shortage. He also cites Chef Brent Beavers’ (The Carter Payne) former work with AspenPointe Cafe as inspiration.

MEANWHILE, I ASK FITZGERALD the same, and he drops another big bit of food news: • On Nov. 9, tentatively, Kelley’s Spiedies Shop (which replaced Rooster’s House Tempura-battered chèvre balls of Ramen this past March at 323 N. with lavender honey, chives and Tejon St.) will close and become The bee pollen Wobbly Olive’s new Downtown location. Meaning both Wobbly Olives will now host Allusion Speakeasy locations inside. Kelley’s Owner/Chef Mark Henry will take charge of The Wobbly Olive’s overall culinary program and hold an ownership stake in the business. “We’ve tightened our partnership up,” says Fitzgerald.

• The Wobbly Olive released a new food menu (with lower entrée prices, notes Fitzgerald) on Oct. 18 at the Eastside location that will debut Downtown when it opens. New cocktail menus are also coming at both locations on Nov. 9. Fitzgerald says the changes will be a “big overhaul” that will give the outfit “an opportunity to start fresh.”

• Allusion on Powers Boulevard launched its The Nightmare Before Christmas theme on Oct. 18. Allusion Downtown starts its new Classic Christmas theme on Nov. 15, partly in partnership with Cocktail Kingdom’s Miracle and Sippin’ Santa charitable fundraising program — which includes special annual custom glassware and “recipes created by some of the best bartenders in the world,” says Fitzgerald. The location will also feature a community white elephant (leave-one-take-one gift).

• As for Tipperary needing to create its own food service, Fitzgerald says they’re offering a small-snack menu (crudités, charcuterie and the like) that’s partly inspired by a cocktail bar Fitzgerald visited in London, named Nightjar.

LASTLY, I REACHED OUT TO MARK HENRY TO DISCUSS THE KELLEY’S closure and what he has in store for The Wobbly Olive. From our chat: • Regarding Kelley’s (which again, will remain open through Nov. 8): “We’re slow and hurting,” says Henry, citing five weeks of recent building-façade work that had scaffolding in front of his entrance, making him appear closed. And in looking at the bigger picture since opening in March, Henry says it remained a challenge all along, educating consumers about what a spiedie sandwich is. He aimed for affordability and good portions but he now feels he may have underpriced himself out of the market “and made ourselves less of a destination.” Plus, many consumers don’t think of sandwiches as a dinner item, he notes.

• On his new role: “This partnership has always been my goal. I’m super excited about this… It’s reinvigorated us to do the things we do well, with a fire in our bellies again… we aren’t partnering in Wobbly out of necessity, we want to deepen our relationship… my days of sole proprietorship are over in lieu of enriching my partnership with Sean and Inez… The real story behind Wobbly now is the team — we’ve put a dream team together that’s reminiscent of pre-pandemic, when we had more people interested in the industry. We’ve found seasoned professionals who are passionate.”

• What’s ahead for the menus: Allusion will get its own theme-inspired, five-item menus to match the creative cocktails (though guests can still order from Wobbly’s larger menu). The Wobbly Olive will see two full menu revamps annually with seasonal tweaks and plenty of special items in between. “The food is delicious and well planned out,” says Henry. “Presentations are nice, flavors are big and we have everything from Creole to French to American to Indian. We aren’t bridled by ‘the chastity belt of authenticity.’” (He’s responding in part to past criticism that he feels has kept local operators from serving their interpretations of classic and regional dishes — as if the food must be an exact replica of the original.) continued on p. 26 ➔

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | INDY

25

Biscuit Factory Facebook

➔ continued from p. 25

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Día de Muertos

Celebration

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HE BISCUIT FACTORY Cat Lounge & Adoption Center (biscuitfactorycat. com) grand opened a couple weeks ago at 2616 W. Colorado Ave., downstairs from Jake & Telly’s and Yellow Mountain Tea House.

In partnership with Happy Cats Have a coffee, adopt a cat.

Haven cat rescue, all cats that guests can visit with on-site are up for adoption. Reservations are recommended for 60-minute sessions. An entry fee ($13) comes with a free beverage (coffee, tea, cocoa or cider) and prepackaged snacks, and additional specialty sodas and canned coffee lattes are available to purchase.

“We plan to expand and have local Colorado goods to purchase as well in the near future,” says owner Lauren Bogert. Her story in brief: “I wanted to open a cat café to give COS something that we don’t have,” she says. “We have [Denver, Boulder and a Loveland cat cafés] but no cat café for the cat lovers of COS. I’m a military spouse whose husband’s job is here for good, so making COS my home helps with setting those roots in the community.”

I visited a cat café in Seoul, South Korea, roughly a decade ago as my first experience with the novel concept. I was on a long trip, missing my own kitties at the time, so it was fun and comforting to get to pet some other cats (and watch locals do some serious photo shoots — I still don’t entirely know what that was about). The experience is less about what you’re eating/drinking and more about the kitty action. And for those serious about adopting, the setting’s ideal for interaction.

A COFFEE FOR THE MOMENT Matthew Schniper

Nov. 1 & 2 | 4–8 p.m.

Join us for a special family-friendly community gathering with: · Live music and performances · Hands-on art activities · Community ofrenda and more!

FREE! Registration is encouraged. fac.coloradocollege.edu

Supported by The Anschitz Foundation, Bee Vradenburg Foundation, and Institute of Museum and Library Services

26

INDY | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

I

COUNT MYSELF AMONG big coffee nerds locally and I’m a fan of our scene, which ranks as good as most any big city.

(Did you know we have a homegrown barista who finished as the runner-up in the 2015 World Barista Championship? The story’s in the Indy archives online.) I try to make my way around the city to support all the shops, but I’m guilty in my private time and for business meetings of staying close to home, so I often end up Downtown.

The Well has been a go-to meeting spot, and I often chat with Gift Horse Bar & Cafe (315 E. Pikes Peak Ave., wellinthesprings.com) manager (and Gift Horse Bar & Cafe’s spiced coffee local DJ) Joe Slivik. He’d impressed me recently with his Three’s a Pair special. He told me he was excited to release his autumn seasonal special, a spiced coffee; so I made it by to purchase one.

Slivik counts a decade working in the industry, and he tells me “I think this is my favorite drink I’ve ever made.” (Yeah, that’s superlative.) So what exactly is it? It’s a coffee infusion on a Yama cold brew tower. He puts ice water in the top chamber to drip through and fresh-ground coffee in the middle chamber with cinnamon, clove, coriander and star anise. The water drips through over an 8-hour period and he expresses a full orange into the batch. For the drink, he steams vanilla syrup into oat milk and pours that over the coffee concentrate, then garnishes it with candied orange powder and Korintje cinnamon (a sweeter variety).

I take a sip and let all the spices wash over my palate, relishing in their depth as they fade into the finish coffee flavor. I say “It’s like a grown-up chai,” to him.

He replies: “It’s what a dirty chai wants to be.”

Matthew Schniper is the former Food & Drink editor and critic at the Indy. You can find expanded food and drink news and reviews at sidedishschnip.substack.com.

Free Will ASTROLOGY

BY ROB BREZSNY

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Edited by Adrian Johnson | Themeless Sunday 58 by Adrian Johnson

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Sagittarian novelist Shirley Jackson wrote, “No live organism can continue for long to exist under conditions of absolute reality; even larks and katydids dream.” Since she wrote that, scientists have gathered evidence that almost all animals dream and that dreaming originated at least 300 million years ago. With that as our inspiration and in accordance with astrological omens, I urge you to enjoy an intense period of tapping into your dreams. To do so will help you escape f rom absolute reality. It will also improve your physical and mental health and give you unexpected clues about how to solve problems.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn writer Kahlil Gibran believed an essential human longing is to be revealed. We all want the light in us to be taken out of its hiding place and shown. If his idea is true about you, you will experience major cascades of gratification in the coming months. I believe you will be extra expressive. And you will encounter more people than ever before who are interested in knowing what you have to express. To prepare for the probable breakthroughs, investigate whether you harbor any fears or inhibitions about being revealed — and dissolve them.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): November is Build Up Your Confidence Month. In the coming weeks, you are authorized to snag easy victories as you steadily bolster your courage to seek bigger, bolder triumphs. As much as possible, put yourself in the vicinity of people who respect you and like you. If you suspect you have secret admirers, encourage them to be less secretive. Do you have plaques, medals or trophies? Display them prominently. Or visit a trophy store and have new awards made for you to commemorate your unique skills — like thinking wild thoughts, pulling off one-of-akind adventures, and inspiring your friends to rebel against their habits.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): I’m glad we have an abundance of teachers helping us learn how to be here now — to focus on the present moment with gratitude and grace. I love the fact that books on the art of mindfulness are now almost as common as books about cats and cooking. Yay! But I also want to advocate for the importance of letting our minds wander freely. We need to celebrate the value and power of NOT always being narrowly zeroed in on the here and now. We can’t make intelligent decisions unless we ruminate about what has happened in the past and what might occur in the future. Meandering around in fantasyland is key to discovering new insights. Imaginative ruminating is central to the creative process.

Now please give your mind the privilege of wandering far and wide in the coming weeks, Pisces.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): “Our bodies sometimes serve as the symbolic ground where order and disorder fight for supremacy,” writes storyteller Caroline Kettlewell. Here’s good news, Aries: For you, order will triumph over disorder in the coming weeks. In part through your willpower and in part through life’s grace, you will tame the forces of chaos and enjoy a phase when most everything makes sense. I don’t mean you will have zero problems, but I suspect you will have an enhanced power to solve problems. Your mind and heart will coordinate their efforts with exceptional flair.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): I recently endured

a three-hour root canal. Terrible and unfortunate, right? No! Because it brought profound joy. The endodontist gave me nitrous oxide, and the resulting euphoria unleashed a wild epiphany. For the duration of the surgery, I had vivid visions of all the people in my life who love me. I felt their care. I was overwhelmed with the kindness they felt for me. Never before had I been blessed with such a blissful gift. Now, in accordance with your astrological omens, I invite you to induce a similar experience — no nitrous oxide needed. It’s a perfect time to meditate on how well you are appreciated and needed and cherished.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Unless you are very unusual, you don’t sew your clothes or grow your food. You didn’t build your house, make your furniture or forge your cooking utensils.

Like most of us, you know little about how water and electricity arrive for your use. Do you have any notion of what your grandparents were doing when they were your age? Have you said a prayer of gratitude recently for the people who have given you so much? I don’t mean to put you on the spot with my questions, Gemini. I’m merely hoping to inspire you to get into closer connection with everything that nourishes and sustains you. Honor the sources of your energy. Pay homage to your foundations.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Cancerian singersongwriter Suzanne Vega has had a modest but sustained career. With nine albums, she has sold over 3 million records, but is not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She has said, “I always thought that if I were popular, I must be doing something wrong.” I interpret that to mean she has sought to remain faithful to her idiosyncratic creativity and not pay homage to formulaic success. But here’s the good news for you in the coming months, fellow Cancerian: You can be more appreciated than ever before simply by being true to your soul’s inclinations and urges.

From bbs.amuniversal.com

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Who would have guessed that elephants can play the drums really well? On a trip to Thailand, Scorpio musician Dave Soldier discovered that if given sticks and drums, some elephants kept a steadier beat than humans. A few were so talented that Soldier recorded their rhythms and played them for a music critic who couldn’t tell they were created by animals. In accordance with astrological omens, I propose that you Scorpios seek out comparable amazements. You now have the potential to make unprecedented discoveries.

1

Charitable offerings

43 Toots and the Maytals genre

Across 5

Spill a secret

46 Pitcher's delivery?

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): “Everything in the world has a hidden meaning,” wrote Greek author Nikos Kazantzakis. Did he really mean everything? Your dream last night, your taste in shoes, your favorite TV show, the way you laugh? As a fun experiment, let’s say that yes, everything has a hidden meaning. Let’s also hypothesize that the current astrological omens suggest you now have a special talent for discerning veiled and camouflaged truths.

We will further propose that you have an extraordinary power to penetrate beyond surface appearances and home in on previously unknown and invisible realities. Do you have the courage and determination to go deeper than you have ever dared? I believe you do.

9

"No seats" sign on B'way

48 Step on it!

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): How many glowworms would have to gather in one location to make a light as bright as the sun? Probably over a trillion. And how many ants would be required to carry away a 15-pound basket of food? I’m guessing over 90,000. Luckily for you, the cumulative small efforts you need to perform so as to accomplish big breakthroughs won’t be nearly that high a number. For instance, you may be able to take a quantum leap after just six baby steps.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In the 17th century, John Milton wrote a long narrative poem titled Paradise Lost. I’ve never read it and am conflicted about the prospect of doing so. On one hand, I feel I should engage with a work that has had such a potent influence on Western philosophy and literature. On the other hand, I’m barely interested in Milton’s story, which includes boring conversations between God and Satan and the dreary tale of how God cruelly exiled humans from paradise because the first man, Adam, was mildly rebellious. So what should I do? I’ve decided to read the Cliffs Notes study guide about Paradise Lost, a brief summary of the story. In accordance with astrological omens, I suggest you call on similar shortcuts, Libra. Here’s your motto: If you can’t do the completely right thing, try the partially right thing.

12 Molars and canines

49 Slowly, musically

14 "Give me the ___" (phrase that could be said, in two senses, at an ice cream social) 15 "Frankly," in a text 19 Some farm machinery

52 "I'll show you the way"

21 Updo, for one

54 "So... you're ruling this out?"

23 "Time to get the show on the road!"

56 Just some person

26 Perform incorrectly

18 Some baby shower planners

58 Asset for a referee or politician

29 Twinkie relative

20 Number of toes on each emu foot

59 Love, in Paris 60 Cul-de-___

21 Folk rocker McCombs 22 Like poker's best flush

61 Architect's detail, briefly

24 "As ___ usual ..."

62 Little rascals

14 "... at least that's what they told me" 16 Like this clue, aptly 17 Tribute group

25 Elect (to) 26 Adventuring companion of Dora the Explorer

28 Fancy necktie 31 Spongy toy brand 32 Gender-affirming treatment, for short 33 (Chows down on a cookie) 34 Chowed down on, as a cookie

Down

36 Quarterback's deceitful "throw"

1

Yamaha Raptor, e.g.

2

X-ray protection

3

Giant shop

30 Like a shorn sheep wearing a wool sweater for warmth

4

Small earrings

5

Undesirable kind of prize

43 Thin cuts

32 Big number?

6

Deny one's true self

45 Bit of inanity

7

It's "just a number"

8

10-year-old Simpson

9

One of two, in D major

27 Actress Remini

35 Outdoor learning environment for young kids 38 Go on about "Star Trek," say

41 It takes up space in many fruit salads

39 iRobot product

10 Trans tennis star Richards

40 Paperwork piece

11

41 Bit of wit

13 First word of "Nowhere Man"

42 "The Blacklist" network

37 Lingerie fabric

Opposite of chaos

44 "Die Young" singer 47 Like the bonds in table salt 48 Hindu teacher 50 Baking ingredient in some brownies?

51 Durable wood sources 53 Singer Rita 55 1/48 of a cup, for short 57 Scrub spots: Abbr.

Find the answers on p. 31 CANDY | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | INDY

27

Tri-Lakes

Courtesy Urban Landscapes

Focus

Lost Island Miniature Golf and Adventure Land, if plans are approved, would be constructed between I-25 and Old Denver Road.

All grown up

Tri-Lakes region growing hotter for commercial, residential developers

O

BY SARAH MCMAHON

nce dependent on surrounding communities for shopping and ser vices, rapid commercial development in and around the one-time bedroom communities of Monument, Palmer Lake and Woodmoor is creating a more self-sufficient Tri-Lakes region.

Population growth is the clear driver behind these developments, and the accelerating growth in residential options has enticed businesses to the area.

“Commercial is not going to come in until you have enough rooftops to serve them,” says Terri Hayes, president and CEO of the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Center & Visitor 28

Center. “Organizations have their certain limit or target goals. So, you’re now starting to see more things come up here as our rooftop count grows.”

And the growth is palpable. The town of Monument has even hired Geographic Information Systems to process growth data to help deter mine f ut ure needs, according to Rey Medina, a planner with the town of Monument.

“There’s a lot of space that’s starting to be filled,” he says. “And so, trying to balance that feeling of available space with an appropriate amount of housing to meet commercial needs and residential requirements ... is what we’re really

COLORADO SPRINGS BUSINESS JOURNAL | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | CSBJ.com

working to balance out.”

As these commercial and residential and projects continue to get approved, TriLakes residents are able to stay closer to home and still meet basic needs, rather than having to drive to Colorado Springs, Castle Rock or Denver. That also means a tax revenue boost for local coffers.

Here is a list of some of the proposed projects, as well as some currently in the works.

COMMERCIAL

In addition to the KFC and Whataburger in the Monument Junction commercial development, Monument and Palmer Lake

are seeing a slew of planned services and retailers. For many residents, these commercial additions can mean less time commuting to a larger city for basic needs and entertainment. This list is not exhaustive, as many projects are under consideration or in the planning phase.

QuikTrip

Nestled between truck stops along Baptist Road, QuikTrip, to open next year, is meant to cater to the average, everyday driver, as opposed to the current stations operating with semis in mind. “QuikTrip is different because it’ll cater more to the individual people,” says Hayes. “There’s

not going to be any allowed parking overnight unlike the other truck stops.”

the state ever since, choosing Monument as its new home base.

Lolley’s Tasting Room

Lost Island Miniature Golf and Adventure Land

Lolley’s Ice Cream owners Shelley and Dustin Sapp have opened a new event venue in downtown Monument called Lolley’s Tasting Room Parties & Events “It can hold up to 75 people and is a fun party space for ... birthday parties, corporate events, etc. They do have their liquor license, a great list of caterers and, of course, will also have ice cream there,” Hayes says.

Eagle Rock Distributing

On the west side, just south of Baptist Road, Eagle Rock Distributing is building a large beer and wine distribution center, according to Hayes. The distribution company delivers to the vast majority of counties in the state and will call Monument its southern Colorado hub. “[Distributors] can load their trucks and hit the freeway in a matter of minutes,” Hayes says.

Native Sun Construction

Nearby, Native Sun Construction is building its headquarters. This large-scale construction company has expanded and is upscaling its operations. Originally operating in New Mexico, the company moved a branch to Colorado in 2013 and has been growing and completing projects all over

This project, proposed for between I-25 and Old Denver Road, is currently in the planning process and is not fully approved, according to Hayes. But the family fun center pitched a “four 18-hole miniature golf courses in various setting; an indoor play area with a multi-story playground, inflatables and a ninja gym; party rooms for birthday (or other) parties; and a seasonal water park equipped with a lazy river [and] multiple water slides...,” according to the project description submitted to the city.

Investing in Front Street

Plans for a mixed-use facility are underway at the corner of Front and Second streets in downtown Monument. “There was an older home that had been there since the early 1900s, and unfortunately, it had fallen into disarray and was not safe anymore,” says Hayes. “So, it did have to be torn down. But what’s going to be put up in its place will have retail and service on the bottom level and apartments on the top level.”

Monument Mercantile

The mercantile opened in September and boasts home décor, gifts, furniture and

rustic farmhouse goods. There are many Colorado-made items and Native Northwest designs.

Calvert’s Mini Market

Along Highway 105 in Palmer Lake, Calvert’s Mini Market is expected to open this month. Currently, there are no comparable services in Palmer Lake, with people driving to grocery stores in Monument and beyond for the basics.

RESIDENTIAL

The residential boom is happening all along the Front Range, and the Tri-Lakes region is no exception. Hundreds of homes are under construction and apartment complexes are welcoming tenants. The region’s population has steadily increased over the last decade, with a large spurt seen between 2020 and 2021 — Monument alone grew by 4.3 percent in that one year, as reported by the Business Journal. The largest entity in the Tri-Lakes are, Monument is evaluating the newest numbers to effectively plan for future builds and residential needs.

Willow Springs Ranch

Southwest of Monument, Willow Springs Ranch is a 214-acre planned residential development that includes 100 acres of protected wildlife habitat, open space, ponds, creeks, trails and a community gar-

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den, according to its website. “When they are done —which will be in a few years — they will have just under 400 homes that are being built, and those are within a mile to 2 miles of downtown Monument,” says Hayes.

Monument Junction

Along Jackson Creek Parkway, this Classic Homes Project will be home to a variety of housing types — ranging from $400,000 to $800,000 for the single-family units that will be built on various sized plots. Commercial development nearby will include businesses such as KFC and Whataburger.

“What’s different [about Monument Junction] is their mid-town collection,” says Hayes. “They are products that are really attractive to single people, young families and especially retirees. It’s a single-family home but vertical,” she says. “They’re very close to each other, so they don’t have a lot of yard. But there are a lot of people that are looking for something like that here.”

The Marq at Monument Ridge

The Marq opened earlier this year, and “it’s a big deal for us because we’ve only ever had one apartment complex,” Hayes says. “And that’s really hard when you have young people that are working up here.” Three more structures are planned, with one to be completed in 2024. The other two have not yet broken ground, according to Hayes. CSBJ n

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WHEN YOU’RE SERIOUS ABOUT REAL ESTATE CSBJ.com | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | COLORADO SPRINGS BUSINESS JOURNAL

29

BY KATHERINE ATHERTON

Katherine Atherton

5 Questions

Jackie Lujan

The Lighthouse Early Care and Education Center

A

fter graduating from Thrive Network’s entrepreneurship program in 2020, Jackie Lujan opened The Lighthouse Early Care and Education center on East Moreno Avenue in the city’s Southeast. The learning-focused day care offers flexible scheduling for children ages 2 to 12. A mother of three herself, Lujan says her decision to go into child care was a calling from God — and today, despite her own personally challenging journey, she is preparing to open a second facility at the Pikes Peak United Way Family Success Center on Verde Drive.

How did you get started in child care?

I was in a season in my life where I felt like I had more purpose than just clocking in, clocking out and collecting a check. I’m a woman of faith, and I decided to pray on it. I asked God, ‘What is it that you want me to do? Where do I belong?’ My husband and I were driving one day and he said, very randomly, ‘Babe, I think that maybe you should start a school.’

I just looked to him like he was crazy. The only experience that I have with children are my three.

That’s it. ... So I prayed on it. And I asked God to give me a confirmation if this is really what I should be doing.

About two weeks later, I just clocked out from work, and I turned on the news — mind you I do not watch the news very often — but there was a breaking story about a woman who was caught with a false wall in her child care center [that allowed her to hide children] in her basement. She was taking in more children for this child care center than she was licensed for, and they reported it.

That was enough for me. I believe that confirmation sparked something inside of me that wanted to pursue a child care center.

If there is anything that I do know how to do, it’s to provide a safe and loving atmosphere for my children. All God’s doing is using me to provide that for other people’s children as well.

Always make sure that you have a vision, over an idea.

30

Talk about opening The Lighthouse?

[2021] was a very hard year for my family. I was hit with three really close deaths. My little brother had passed away at 30 years old in November. That was a very hard hit for me — I didn’t know how to handle it. Two weeks later, my father-in-law passed away, and then about a month later, my husband’s brother was killed. It was just back-to-back funerals for us.

I was destroyed emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually. I decided to go to bereavement therapy.

Then around February-ish [2022] I told myself, ‘You know what, you need to get back up. This is not the life that you were called to live. You need to pull yourself out of this some way, somehow.’ I decided to lean on God for the strength that I needed in order to break loose from everything that was holding me down from pursuing the future that I was committed to living.

COLORADO SPRINGS BUSINESS JOURNAL | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | CSBJ.com

I decided to start getting really serious about the funding part of it. I sold my house. That was our only option. That was our skin in the game. It was a huge leap of faith to really prove to God that we’re in this.

If God says this is gonna work, and this is something that he wants us to do, then we’re gonna do it. And so we sold our house.

We were able to [cover] all of the startup costs, luckily. I was posting a lot on social media about it.

You know, ‘I need you to donate your time. I need a plumber. I need a painter. I need anything at all that can you do.’ A lot of people really reached out to me and donated their time and we got it done.

Now that I’m in business and we’re operating, I’ve had the chance to take a step back and reflect really on everything that I have gone through. It’s pretty crazy when you actually give yourself that grace to sit down by yourself and [process] everything you’ve gone through. It’s like, ‘You got this.’

You’ll be opening your second location soon at the Family Success Center. Tell us about that.

The Family Success Center offers adult educational classes, [English as a second language] classes, business classes, and all the services are provided to the community for free. A lot of these families have kiddos that they have no choice but to bring into these classes, because they don’t have child care. That’s where we come in. We now have a licensed child care center over there that we’re finishing putting together.

We are going to have three classrooms and about 45 spots available. We’re super excited.

Talk about your journey as an entrepreneur and your time with Thrive Network.

It was really hard for me to break that employee mindset and jump into an entrepreneur mindset. I had to do a lot of research. ... I threw myself in the Thrive Network program. They’re a very supportive group, and over time they became family. They’re just a phone call away and they make it very evident that you can reach out to them if you have any questions.

They have a lot of credit here in the community, so when you say, ‘I’m a Thrive graduate,’ it automatically gives you a green light. ... We’re all connected on some level, and it feels good to know that I have that tool in my back pocket at all times in case I do need anything. They’re there to help me or connect me with whoever can.

Do you have any advice for new business owners in Colorado Springs?

Always make sure that you have a vision over an idea. If this is really something that you want to do, then pursue it and do whatever it takes in order for you to get it established — but if it’s something that you’re just pondering, then sit on that for a little bit.

Always make sure that this is exactly what you know you should be doing, and then put a little skin in the game. I feel like planting those seeds is very wise — because if you don’t believe in it, then why should anybody else? CSBJ n

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CLASSIFIEDS | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023, 2023 | INDY

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Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer

President and CEO of the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC

Hear Johnna share the future she sees for Colorado Springs’ business and economic development and how her passion for community influences her leadership.

Nov. 8

4:30 - 6 p.m.

ALMAGRE

2460 Montebello Square Drive

Scan QR code to purchase tickets or visit CSBJ.com/events

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INDY | Nov. 1 - 7, 2023 | CLASSIFIEDS