This summer, the El Paso County Fair is set to celebrate 120 Spudtacular Years of tradition, community, and fun — and you're invited! Held July 12–19 in Calhan, the 2025 Fair promises a week of excitement with a special nod to the legacy that helped shape El Paso County and the West.
It All Started With a Spud
The El Paso County Fair story begins in 1905 with a humble celebration of one modest but mighty crop, the potato. That year, local farmers gathered to share their harvests, enjoy meals, and connect as a community. It was more than a festival. It was a celebration of hard work, resilience, and the promise of prosperity in the Pikes Peak region.
Over the decades, that small agricultural gathering has become one of El Paso County's most anticipated annual events, celebrating the region's agricultural heritage and community spirit. Today, the Fair honors its agricultural roots while delivering big-time fun for residents and visitors alike.
A Journey Through the Decades
This year's Fair theme is "A Spudtacular Journey," presented by Ed Green Construction. The theme is a nod to the Fair's humble beginnings. Each day of the Fair will highlight a different era — from the early 1900s to today — showcasing the cultural moments, entertainment, and traditions that have defined generations of Fairgoers.
What to Expect
Visitors can look forward to a week packed with high-energy entertainment, community events, and family-friendly fun. Free daily entertainment includes favorites like Mad Chad the Chainsaw Juggler,, dfdafdf
Thrill Extravaganza, and the high-energy Boom! Hype Crew. Music lovers will enjoy free concerts throughout the week, featuring artists like Exit West, Jason Wulf Band, and Winchester Road.
The Fair offers thrilling ticketed events, including auto races, rodeos, and the everpopular Demolition Derby. Special theme days like Military Appreciation Day, El Paso County Day, and Heroes Day honor residents and offer unique discounts and activities.
Of course, the agricultural heart of the Fair beats strong. 4-H and FFA youth will showcase their hard work through livestock shows, tabletop displays, and hands-on exhibits — culminating in the Junior livestock
9 TO 5
Livestock Sale on Saturday, July 19.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, there's never been a better time to experience the El Paso County Fair. From deep historical roots to new family traditions, this year's Fair celebrates the region's history and legacy.
Before heading out, be sure to "know before you go." Visit elpasocountyfair.com for up-to-date schedules, special event days, ticket information, and more.
Join us for A Spudtacular Journey in Calhan this July as we honor the past and celebrate the future.
Message from the County Administrator
As we move through the second quarter of the year, I want to thank you—our community—for your continued engagement and support. In this edition of the County newsletter, you’ll learn about several important projects and updates that reflect our continued commitment to thoughtful planning, responsible stewardship, and meaningful service.
One of the key highlights this quarter is our focus on advance planning, including a new regional effort to strengthen wildfire evacuation readiness. Led by the Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management, the initiative incorporates local expertise, lessons from recent fires, and innovative technology—such as the AI tool, Ladris—to help us better prepare for and respond to emergencies across the region. You’ll also read about our recent participation in National County Government Month. We joined counties across the country in recognizing the essential services we provide—from Veterans Services and transportation to the Citizens Connect app and other tools that make it easier for residents to engage with local government. We also celebrated the dedicated employees who deliver these services every day.
Finally, we’re looking ahead to one of our most cherished summer traditions—the El Paso County Fair. It’s a celebration of community, agriculture, and local pride, and we hope to see you there. Thank you for being part of El Paso County’s continued progress. Together, we’re building a county where people want to live, work, and raise a family.
Andrew’s Alerts
Summer is here once again! It’s a great time to get out and enjoy the outdoors, especially here in beautiful El Paso County. And while cookouts and campfires are tailor-made for our incredible summer climate, it’s important to remember the risks involved. As the potential for wildfires remains high in Colorado, the Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management (PPROEM) is developing an Advanced Evacuation Plan to help keep our community safe, especially during fast-moving, wind-driven fires like those seen in Boulder, Paradise, Lahaina, and Los Angeles.
This new plan is data-driven, locally focused, and shaped by hard-learned lessons from fires here in El Paso County, like Waldo Canyon and Black Forest, and across the country. It will build on our existing all-hazards evacuation plan by focusing specifically on complex evacuations in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI), where homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure are closely intertwined with flammable vegetation.
One of the key tools in this effort is Ladris, a cutting-edge operational tool that uses real-time data to help emergency managers better plan for and respond to evacuation scenarios. Supported by a grant from the State Internet Port Authority, Ladris represents a major step forward in how we prepare for large-scale emergencies. But it’s important to remember – technology isn’t a silver bullet. Community readiness still depends on individual action.
That’s why we urge all residents, especially those living in western areas of El Paso County, to take three important steps:
1.Sign up for Peak Alerts, our regional emergency notification system, by visiting https://elpasoteller911.org/304/Peak-Alerts
2.Make a household evacuation plan and talk it through with your family.
3 Reduce wildfire risk around your home by practicing proven mitigation techniques.
We can’t eliminate all wildfire risk, but with better data, stronger planning, and a well-prepared community, we can make smarter decisions and respond faster when it matters most. To learn more about PPROEM’s Advanced Evacuation Plan, visit pproem.com/evacuationplanning
COURIER
The Courier is a quarterly newsletter produced by the El Paso County Department of Communications. Each issue features insight into El Paso County and the services the county provides.
Communications Department
Natalie Sosa - Interim Executive Director
Amy Jo Fields - Marketing Communications Manager
Scott Anderson - Communications & Public Relations Manager
Michael Madsen - Open Records Manager
Deborah Contreras - Sr. Communications & Public Relations Specialist
Dominic Manzo - Communications & Public Relations Coordinator
SPECIAL THANKS TO EL PASO COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS AUDIO VISUAL TEAM & CONNOR HIBBS PHOTOGRAPHY
Bret Waters El Paso County Administrator
Andrew Notbohm Executive Director, Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management
County Government Month Recap
This past April, El Paso County joined local municipalities across the country in celebrating National County Government Month. This was an opportunity to shine a light on the people behind the services, our county employees, who work with dedication and purpose to make life better for every resident.
County government isn’t always front and center in daily headlines, but it plays an important role in the lives of people throughout the region. From maintaining roads and bridges to ensuring public safety, supporting public health, and delivering human services, county departments work tirelessly to meet the needs of a growing population.
At the heart of this work is a deep commitment to public service. El Paso County’s strategic plan centers on priorities like strengthening infrastructure, ensuring high-quality services, promoting public trust, and safeguarding health and safety. These aren’t just ideas on paper – they’re the guiding principles that shape decisions, drive innovation, and inspire the day-to-day actions of our employees. That work is highlighted on our strategic dashboard, which residents can track for themselves.
That commitment was evident throughout County Government Month, with the Communications Department leading efforts to raise awareness, engage the community, and celebrate the work of county staff. One standout effort was a special episode of the El Paso County podcast, Beyond the Dais, featuring Commissioners Carrie Geitner and Cory Applegate. The conversation offered residents an inside look at the role of county government, the challenges we face, and the passion our leaders bring to the job. It helped bring local government closer to the people it serves, which is one of our most important goals.
We also partnered with local school districts to distribute educational materials designed to teach students about the role of county government. By helping young people understand how decisions are made and services are delivered, we’re building a foundation of civic knowledge and community engagement for the next generation.
On social media, a fun and creative campaign brought county services to life through digital “trading cards” that highlighted the work of different departments. From Veterans Services to Public Works to Parks, these snapshots helped break down complex services into relatable, engaging stories. It was a celebration of both the scope of county government and the people who make it all happen.
Internally, weekly stories in the county employee newsletter focused on building cross-departmental knowledge—helping staff better understand how their work fits into the larger picture of county services. When employees know more about each other’s work, collaboration becomes easier and more effective. That’s part of our commitment to being a servicefocused and collaborative organization.
These communications efforts reflect our core values: service-focused, collaborative, transparent, accountable, and trustworthy. But more importantly, they reflect the values that our employees live out every day. Whether it's a fleet technician keeping snowplows ready for the next storm, a constituent services employee helping direct a resident to answers they seek, or a caseworker helping a family through a difficult time, El Paso County employees are united by a shared mission: to serve the people of this community with integrity.
One thing we know is that building trust doesn’t happen overnight. It takes consistent, visible, and meaningful action. That’s why our strategic plan also focuses on transparency and accountability. By sharing information, listening to residents, and following through on our commitments, we continue to strengthen the bond between county government and the people it serves.
As we reflect on County Government Month, we extend our deepest thanks to the employees who keep El Paso County running. Their work may often go unseen, but its impact is felt in every corner of the county. We look forward to more opportunities to celebrate them—and to reaffirm our promise to keep building a government that our residents can trust, depend on, and be proud of.
How Public Works Combats Spring Conditions
If you’ve been stuck in the muck lately on a gravel road in El Paso County, you’re not alone. Wet weather, snowmelt, and freeze-thaw cycles turn even the best gravel roads into a challenge. They’re not paved, so they shift with the seasons. Our Public Works team maintains 2,000+ lane miles of gravel roads across 23 service areas, working on a 6–8 week rotation to grade, reshape, and restore roads.
Here’s how we fight the mud:
Routine Grading: Daily smoothing and drainage work
Graveling: 100–150 lane miles get fresh gravel yearly
Reclamation: Deep repairs and dust control on 200+ lane miles
Interactive Map: Check road status anytime at publicworks.elpasoco.com
We wish we could dry every puddle instantly, but weather and terrain play a big role. Grading too wet? We risk doing more harm than good. We appreciate your patience and encourage you to report concerns through Citizen Connect. Rain or shine, mud or dust— we’re here to keep El Paso County’s gravel roads safe and drivable.
El Paso County’s Citizen College Is Back!
Join us for the 2025 El Paso County Citizen College – October 13–18, 2025. El Paso County Citizen College is your chance to go behind the scenes with County government and see firsthand how your local tax dollars support essential services that keep our community running strong. Whether you're interested in public safety, infrastructure, elections, or economic development, Citizen College offers a comprehensive look at the work being done every day to serve you.
Participants will hear directly from County leaders and subject-matter experts on the El Paso County government's structure, responsibilities, and day-to-day operations. Citizen College is a unique opportunity to become a more informed, engaged citizen and help strengthen our community through understanding and civic involvement.
Don't miss your chance to connect with the work your county does and learn more about the spaces and programs that make El Paso County a great place to live, work, and explore!
Registration opens soon. Space is limited. Stay tuned! To learn more, visit www.elpasoco.com/citizen-college
Pikes Peak Down Payment Assistance Program
One of the fantastic programs offered by the El Paso County Economic Development Department could help you buy a home this year! Through the Pikes Peak Down Payment Assistance Program (PPDPA), you could receive up to 5% down payment assistance ($25,000 on a $500,000 home) with 0% interest and complete forgiveness over time. The program has already helped more than 2,800 families become homeowners right here in El Paso County!
Plus, in 2025, if you or your co-borrower is a veteran, teacher, healthcare worker, first responder, or law enforcement officer, you could qualify for an additional 1% grant through the Hometown Heroes Incentive, that could be $5,000 more toward your home!
Here's what else you should know:
No first-time homebuyer requirement
There is no price cap on your home
The home must be in El Paso County, Colorado
Not taxpayer-funded
Income limits up to $162,960 (depending on loan type)
Credit score and debt-to-income limits apply to ensure long-term success
Whether you're just starting to explore or ready to house hunt, El Paso County Community Development
help you navigate the next steps and connect with participating lenders and realtors.
Learn more at www.pikespeakdpa.com, and take that exciting first step toward owning your piece of El Paso County!
Economic Development Year in Review
2024 was a busy year for El Paso County Economic Development. Building a robust economy in a county of 750,000 people and over 2,000 square miles is no easy task. But with a unique approach, holistic and adaptable to the ever-changing needs of an ever-growing region, Executive Director Crystal LaTier and her team of six have a lot to show for their focused and multifaceted efforts.
When it comes to local business, Economic Development spurs growth through incentive programs and the establishment of a business-friendly environment. In 2024, 21 new business loans were provided to El Paso County businesses, a 163% increase from the previous year. What’s more, 365 businesses in the Pikes Peak Enterprise Zone earned over 8.1 million dollars in state income tax credits —15% more than 2023—allowing them to use that money as fuel for economic growth.
Other beneficiaries of Economic Development’s hard work include local residents and nonprofits. The Community Development Block Grant supported over 13,000 residents in 2024, including 47 veterans and 1,232 seniors, and funneled over 1.1 million dollars into the community. The funds helped rehabilitate homes, improve infrastructure and public facilities, and provide wraparound services for those in need. The department also collected over 5.5 million dollars in charitable donations for 45 Enterprise Zone Contribution Projects, supporting healthcare, job training, and tourism.
Regarding housing, Economic Development and the El Paso County Housing Authority collaborate with developers on affordable housing and offer down payment assistance to homebuyers. In 2024 alone, the department committed over 44 million dollars from federal Private Activity Bonds and a local revolving loan fund to the development of 267 units of future affordable housing—50 units of senior housing and 217 units of family housing, about a third of which will have access to daycare. Additionally, Economic Development helped six families purchase homes through the Pikes Peak Down Payment Assistance Program, bringing the total to 2,831 homebuyers assisted since 2013.
Analyst Randi Davis is here to
New El Paso County Department
In March 2025, El Paso County created the Department of Community Resources. Under the leadership of Executive Director Vernon Stewart, this new department strategically combines three existing divisions, Environmental Services, Justice Services, and Veterans Services. Centralizing these divisions ensures access to critical resources and programs is even easier, more cost-effective and efficient for residents of the County.
“The decision to unify these divisions under one department was ‘driven by a strategic vision’,” said Stewart, “to enhance alignment, increase operational efficiency, and deliver a more seamless and responsive experience to our residents.”
But what are these divisions and who do they serve?
Ensuring and maintaining the natural health of the County is a big job and the Division of Environmental Services assists residents with events like Clean Sweep, which facilitates a safe way to dispose of hazardous and hard-to-recycle materials, protecting the environment and the public.
Navigating the criminal legal system can be confusing and expensive. The Division of Justice Services supports residents by providing innovative and cost-effective opportunities such as the Community Corrections Program, which offers a restorative alternative to fines and incarceration for low-level offenses. This reduces jail populations and allows a way for individuals to positively contribute to their community.
With so many of America’s veteran population calling El Paso County home, the Division of Veterans Services makes navigating the complexities of the federal benefits system their top priority. The Appeals Program aids veterans when it comes to contesting denied benefits claims. It’s an underutilized but crucial service that can make a life-changing difference for veterans and their families.
By creating the Department of Community Resources, El Paso County is aiming to be the model of integrated service delivery for Colorado.
New and Affordable Senior Living
On April 9, the El Paso County Housing Authority (EPCHA) attended a site visit and tour of Paloma Gardens - a newly opened senior affordable housing development located in central Colorado Springs (920 S Chelton Rd). The EPCHA provided a $500,000 Housing Trust Fund loan to support the development of Paloma Gardens.
Paloma Gardens has immediate occupancy available for their beautiful 1-bedroom units.
When Love and Lightning Strikes - Episode of Dead on Arrival Now Available
Dead on Arrival is a true-crime and medical investigation series that examines the real moments and choices leading to sudden, unexpected deaths. With insight from the El Paso County Coroner’s Office, each episode explains what happened, how, and why it matters. Through powerful stories and real medical details, the show helps viewers understand the risks in everyday life—and how to avoid them.
In the second episode of Dead on Arrival, a young couple sets out to enjoy Colorado’s breathtaking mountain views, unaware of the shift in weather looming overhead. What begins as a peaceful hike quickly gives way to something far more dangerous. Narrated by Medical Examiner Dr. Leon Kelly, the story explores how quickly outdoor adventures can take a turn when the elements aren’t on your side. With cinematic visuals and real-life insight, this episode is compelling and educational, offering practical lessons to help keep you and your family safe during outdoor activities in Colorado’s unpredictable backcountry.
Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/1ViyyBhgtd4?si=_V8-TU6YEYXYs5si
VIEWPOINT
CROSSWORD PUZZLE SCAN CODE FOR TICKETS
Across
Crowned ambassador judged on knowledge & horsemanship (2 words)
Canning contest prize in the 1940s “Home Ec” competition (2 words) 8. Competitive flower growing with roots in the 1940s fair 11. Oversized vehicle built to crush, leap, and entertain (2 words) 13. Horse-drawn prairie hauler of pioneer days (2 words)
14. Family who donated land for the fairgrounds in the 1920s
15. Essential fair helpers who give time, not for pay
16. Fair day honoring first responders and everyday lifesavers (2 words)
1. A Fair-famous miniature highland cow 2. Fried Fair treat made with batter and powdered sugar (2 words) 4. Cowboy contest with bucking broncs and roping thrills 5. Horse-riding discipline featured at the fair and Olympics
Retro-themed dance party with headphones and livestock (3 words)
This year’s potato-perfect fair theme play 10. The Fair’s hometown and site of the colorful Paint Mines 12. Crop that started it all at the 1905 fair
As the saying goes, “A wise man learns from the mistakes of others.” In today’s puzzle, I invite you to learn from one of mine. The following position comes from a recent game in which I missed what could have been a spectacular checkmate.
BLACK TO PLAY
Mark
Steve Schleiker, Clerk & Recorder
Dr. Emily Russell-Kinsley
Michael Allen, District Attorney
Chuck Broerman, Treasurer & Trustee Joseph Roybal, Sheriff
