Volunteers reporting on community issues in Monument, Palmer Lake, and the surrounding Tri-Lakes area
Issue #295 — Volume 25 Number 10 — Saturday, October 4, 2025
Our website is OCN.ME. Audio is posted for most of the articles and videos for some events. In the paper, events with videos are marked:
Local Events
Readers should assume that event information published in this issue is subject to change and information should be confirmed a day or two before the event by calling the information number or checking the organization’s website. See page 22 and page 23 or check https://wp.ocn.me/events for event locations and other details of these and many other local events.
• OCN mailing days, Thu., Oct. 2 & Oct. 30, approx. 7-8:30 am. If you can help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail, contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
• WMMI, Miners' Pumpkin Patch every Sat. in Oct. See ad on page 10.
• Benet Hill Monastery, Blessing of the Animals, Sat., Oct. 4, 3 pm. Melanie DeMore concert, Sun., Oct. 5, 11:30 am. See ad on page 3.
• St. Matthias Blessing of the Animals, Sun., Oct. 5, 3 pm-5 pm. See ad on page 5.
• Checkered table talks, monthly speaker series. Thu., Oct. 7, doors open 5 pm, program 5:30-6:30 pm,
• Speed puzzle events, Tue., Oct. 7; Mon., Oct. 13; Mon., Oct. 20 6:30 pm-9:30 pm See ad on page 2.
• Friends of Monument Preserve (FOMP) Trail Repair Work Days, Thu., Oct. 9, 5 pm-7 pm
• Tri-Lakes Women's Club, Fri., Oct. 10, Michael Weinfeld and John Howe present highlights of their book Shootouts, Killings, and War Heroes: The History Hidden in Monument Cemetery.
• Maker’s Market , Sat.-Sun., Oct. 11-12. See ad on page 8.
• 100+ Women Who Care Bi-Annual Meeting, Wed., Oct. 15, 5 pm-7 pm.
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Thu., Oct. 16, 7-8 pm (doors open at 6:30).
• Covered Treasures Bookstore Book Signing, Thu., Oct. 16, 4 pm-7 pm; Margaret Mizushima, Burning Cry; Kathleen Donnelly, Colorado K-9 Secrets, Killer Secrets. Sat., Oct. 18, 11-1 p.m., Doug Freed, Over Hill and Over Dale; 12-2 p.m., Andrew Singer & Stacy May, Now Is the Time and She Journeys. 105 Second Street, Monument, 719-481-2665.
• Restyle Your Fur, Mon.-Tue., Oct. 20-21, 10 am-5 pm. See ad on page 10.
• St. Peter Catholic School Trunk or Treat and Fall Festival, Fri., Oct. 24, 5 pm-7 pm. See ad on page 2.
• TLWC's Joys of the Holiday Season Holiday Home Tour, Fri.Sat., Nov. 21-22, 10-4pm. See ad on page 8.
Palmer Lake News 1-6
Monument News 1, 6
D38 News 6-10
Fire District News 10-12
Water & San District News 12-14
County & HOA News 14-16
Letters 16-17
Columns 17-19
Snapshots 19-21
Notices and Calendar 22-23
OCN Info 1, 21, 23
Trinity Community Park expands
Above: Trinity Community Park continues to expand. It’s added three more elements, a meditation labyrinth, a sensory trail and a small dog park. Ribbon
Executive Director Tamara Schwarz, quoting her husband, Ron, told the crowd,
were held on Sept. 21. The sensory trail contains colorful metal sculptures that children can hit with mallets to make music (see
“Children represent 17% of our population, but they represent 100% of our future. Giving them a safe space to come and play and be kids and enjoy life, isn’t that what it’s all about? That’s what Trinity Community Park is all about.” In the
1-year-old John Morgridge plays music at the sensory trail.
Palmer Lake Board of Trustees, Sept. 25
New board members seated; annexation ordinance becomes law
By James Howald and Jackie Burhans
The Palmer Lake Board of Trustees (PLBOT) canceled its first regular board meeting of the month, scheduled for Sept. 11. At its Sept. 25 meeting, Beth Harris and Roger Mosley took seats on the board. Mayor Pro Tem Amy Hutson ran the meeting in place of Mayor Dennis Stern, who did not attend. The newly constituted board adopted an ordinance that requires annexations to be approved by a vote of the people and filled a vacancy on the Planning Commission. The board heard an update from Town Attorney Scott Krob regarding pending litigation against the town and staff reports from Town Clerk Erica Romero and Interim Town Administrator Glen Smith.
During the public comment period, resident Gary Atkins and County Commissioner Bill Wysong, among others, commented on the contentious special election held Sept. 9. The board heard a presentation on the Fountain Creek Watershed Dis-
trict’s (FCWD) Creek Week Cleanup. The meeting ended with an executive session.
Harris and Moseley sworn in The Sept. 25 meeting opened with Town Clerk Erica Romero administering the oath of office to Beth Harris and Roger Moseley. Harris and Moseley were elected to replace Trustees Shana Ball and Kevin Dreher who were recalled on Sept. 9. As Harris and Moseley took their seats on the board, the audience gave them a prolonged round of applause.
Annexation ordinance adopted
In the special election that replaced Ball and Dreher with Harris and Moseley, the voters also approved a ballot initiative requiring all future annexations to be approved by the voters. At the Sept. 25 meeting, the newly constituted board adopted Ordinance 05-2025, the final step in making it law.
Krob told the board that Exhibit A, which accompanies the ordinance in the board packet, shows the com-
plete text of the town’s code governing the annexation of land. The language added by the initiative is underlined. He directed the board’s attention to Section 8 of the exhibit: Requirement for Voter Approval. That section requires a special election to approve any annexation but does not specify when that election should take place, Krob said. That election could be held at the beginning of the annexation process, but Krob recommended it occur after eligibility had been determined, because only then would the electorate know exactly what it was voting on. Hutson suggested the question of timing be decided at the next board meeting, since it was not on the agenda for the Sept. 25 meeting. Harris asked Krob if he had made any changes to the language from the initiative when he incorporated it into the town’s code. Krob said he had made one change: the date of Oct. 30, 2025 was used instead of the phrase “one year before” to make it clearer exactly what
Monument Town Council, Sept. 2 and 15
Growing budget deficit; Town lays off five people
By Marlene Brown
On Sept. 2, the Monument Town Council had its regular meeting for nine minutes and then adjourned the meeting and began the poststudy session to discuss the proposed preliminary budget for 2026. Jennifer Phillips, finance manager since July 2024, presented the 2026 preliminary budget. It highlights anticipated revenues, planned expenditures, and shows a loss in the next two years and beyond should the town continue the financial road they are on right now.
Where should they cut back to reduce the deficit growing every day? The town laid off five employees because of the budget shortfall, and one retired rather than be let go.. Those laid off were Civil Engineering Inspector Tom Martinez, who’d been with the town more
than a decade, Deputy Town Clerk Sylvia Simpson, Support Services Administrative Assistant Jennifer Holmes, Park Tech Kellyn Bryan and Public Works Administrative Assistant Jenny Pena-Garzon. Facilities Superintendent Ron Rathburn elected to retire after 40 years rather than being laid off. With the layoffs of Simpson and Holmes, only Mirielle Bock is left manning the front desk at the Town Hall. That means when Bock takes a lunch, the office is closed for an hour.
Revenue projections
The preliminary budget projects total revenues for the fiscal year based on a combination of property taxes, sales taxes, state and federal grants, service fees, and other revenues. Notable factors influencing revenue estimates: • Sales tax collections are down
due to people not spending as much.
• State or federal funding/grants for infrastructure and community projects.
• Revisions in service fees to be passed on to customers. Expenditure overview
Some major expenditure categories that wouldn’t be reduced or increased at this time, prioritizing essential services:
• Public Safety: Continued funding for police, fire, and emergency services, with potential increases for staffing and equipment upgrades. (Would not fill three vacancies in the Police Department, which is actively searching for candidates.)
cuttings
photo).
photo,
Photo by Michael Weinfeld. PL BOT (Cont. on 2)
Read, download, search, and listen to OCN content at our mobile-friendly
period the ordinance would cover. Krob said the date of Oct. 30 was chosen to allow 30 days of notice. The board voted unanimously in favor of the ordinance.
Planning Commission vacancy filled Hutson told the board that the Planning Commission had recommend-
ed Rich Kuehster for its vacant seat at its Sept. 17 meeting Kuehster said he had lived in Palmer Lake for 49 years, came from a family that values public service, had served as the town’s fire chief and had also served two terms on the board, leaving it in 2017. Harris asked why he was interested in serving on the Planning Commission, and Kuehster said he was prepared to interpret the town’s master plan
October 4, 2025
and municipal codes and make good decisions about land use. The board voted unanimously to appoint Kuehster to the open Planning Commission seat.
Pending litigation
Krob told the board there were two pending lawsuits against the town: one filed by Integrity Matters, a watchdog group in Colorado Springs, and the other by Moseley and Martha Brodzik.
In the Integrity Matters lawsuit, a motion to dismiss has been filed by the Colorado Intergovernmental Risk Sharing Agency (CIRSA), the organization that insures the town. That suit is waiting on a decision from the judge, Krob said.
A motion to dismiss has also been filed in the lawsuit brought by Moseley and Brodzik, Krob said. That suit has been fully briefed and is waiting for a decision from the judge.
Krob told the board that Buc-ee’s is still moving forward with its annexation request, which will be voted on by the board at its meeting on Oct. 2. The Chinn annexation request has been placed on hold by Todd Messenger, the United Congregational Church’s lawyer.
Staff reports
Romero said the special recall election had been successfully conducted following hard work by the town staff. It was a smooth and transparent process. Romero thanked county Clerk and Recorder Steve Schleiker and his Election Manager, Angie Leath, for their partnership and guidance. Smith thanked the staff for a transparent, fair elec-
turnout. He said he was disappointed that County Commissioner Bill Wysong posted negatively about the election.
Moseley asked Smith about the status of an audit of the town’s finances, which is overdue. Smith said an extension had been requested, but the audit would not be complete by Sept. 30. Smith said he expected the audit to be complete by mid-Oc-
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outstanding audit was complete, he would publish a Request for Proposal seeking a new auditor.
Public Comments
Atkins told the board he was a 50-year-resident of the town and had served on the Planning Com-
mission and on the Sanitation District board. He asked the board to cut the town’s financial losses regarding the annexation request from Buc-ee’s. He pointed out that Mayor Glant Havenar had been forced to resign, two board members had been recalled and replaced, and another board member had avoided recall by being appointed as mayor. These things proved the town did not want the proposed Buc-ee’s travel center, Atkins argued, and he asked trustees and the mayor to resign if they could not support the town’s decision. His comments were met with applause.
Wysong congratulated the two new board members and said that before the election, he said elected officials are required to vote and work for their constituents. He noted that Smith objected to those remarks but said an overwhelming number of people asked for his support. He said he had asked the office of the county Clerk and Recorder to help the town with the election and was pleased with the accountability and transparency.
Creek Week cleanup
Mary Wilson, FCWD’s outreach coordinator, gave the board an overview of the organization and the watershed. FCWD’s mission is to be good
Above and below: At the regular Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting Sept. 25, Town Clerk Erica
administered oaths of office to new board members
(above left) and Roger Moseley (below left). Harris and Moseley were elected to replace Trustees Shana Ball and Kev in Dreher, who were recalled in the Sept. 9 municipal election..
Photos by Jackie Burhans.
stewards of the watershed and to protect, restore, and sustain it. FCWD was established by the state in 2009, she said, and had completed 22 restoration projects with more on the way. Its funding comes from Colorado Springs Utilities.
The watershed is 92 square miles, Wilson said, crossing two counties and containing eight municipalities, with Palmer Lake at its northern boundary, Pueblo at its southern boundary and including Green Mountain Falls and Pikes Peak. It is the second most studied watershed in America, and one of the most erratic, she said. Fountain Creek was once ephemeral, that is, flowing intermittently, but now flows continuously due to the amount of building that has happened. Erosion is an ongoing problem, as the elevation changes from 14,115 feet to 4,695 feet over 71 miles.
Following Wilson’s remarks, Hutson read
Romero
Beth Harris
a proclamation recognizing Creek Week 2025, which declared Sept. 27 through Oct. 5 as “Creek Week.”
On Sept. 27, a group of volunteers met at Glen Park to remove brush from the banks of Monument Creek. See the snapshot section on page 21.
Executive session
The meeting ended with an executive session to receive legal advice on a possible amendment of a sale agreement between the town and Twenty 1 Five LLC.
Following the executive session, the board took two actions: It approved an amendment to extend the sale agreement and voted to approve
Ordinance 06-2025 to vacate portions of the Estabrook Street right of way.
**********
A special board meeting is scheduled for Oct. 2. See the town’s website at www.townofpalmerlake.com to confirm times and dates of board meetings and workshops. Meetings are typically held on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at the Town Hall. Information: 719-4812953. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
By Jackie Burhans
At its Sept. 2 special meeting, the Palmer Lake Planning Commission voted to recommend denial of Buc-ee’s Planned Development Plan (PD), sketch plan, and annexation agreement.
Commissioner Andre Bergeron recused himself, citing an intimidating package delivered to his home that alarmed his family and compromised his impartiality.
Town Attorney Scott Krob said the meeting continued the Aug. 20 session and would focus on the applicant’s responses to prior questions.
Public comment remained closed, but Chair Charlie Ihlenfeld allowed a brief recess to distribute printed Q&A documents.
After a failed motion to approve the PD with conditions, Commissioner Bill Fisher moved to recommend denial, citing noncompliance with the Community Master Plan, excessive size, loss of small-town character, number of impermeable surfaces, water concerns, night sky impact, and lack of bike and pedestrian infrastructure. The motion passed 3-2.
The commission voted 3-2 to recommend denial of the sketch plan on similar grounds.
Commissioner Matt Stephen led the annexa-
(Cont. from 1)
• Public Works and Infrastructure: Allocation
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tion agreement discussion, citing vague language about building size and unclear responsibility for County Line Road improvements. Beeson raised concerns about long-term water needs. The motion to deny passed 4-1.
Note: The Palmer Lake Board of Trustees is scheduled to make the final decision about the Buc-ee's project at a special meeting Oct. 2, which is after this issue of OCN has gone to press. For the latest Tri-Lakes area news, please check our website (www.ocn.me) or subscribe to our email
for road maintenance, water and sewer systems, and capital improvements. (Would not build new maintenance building at this time.)
• General Government: Technology upgrades and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• State funding for Jackson Parkway has been reduced, and the town does not have the dollars to complete the project.
Some major expenditures that are being looked at to reduce monthly and yearly outflow of cash:
• Membership fees to intergovernmental associations
• Training and travel
• Executive leadership salaries
• Employee wellness programs, such as gym membership and other benefits
• Eliminate Christmas lights
The budget process considers several challenges, including uncertainties in economic conditions that could affect the outcome, including costs for personnel, materials, and services, and balancing
By Janet Sellers
The Monument Planning Commission’s September meeting was canceled. The next meeting is scheduled for October 8 at 6 p.m. in the Town Council chambers at 645 Beacon Lite Road, Monument.
The commission advises the Town Council on land use and development issues. The commission’s recommendations are based on local and state laws, zoning, and municipal codes.
newsletter at https://wp.ocn.me/newslettersignup or download our mobile and desktop app at https://wp.ocn.me/app. **********
The Palmer Lake Planning Commission Meets third Wed. Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Info: 719-481-2953. Jackie Burhans can be contacted at jackieburhans@ocn.me
competing demands for limited resources across departments.
Public input
The Town Council will meet with the Citizens Advisory Committee following the release of the preliminary budget on Sept. 2 and continue the discussion of financial management and strategic planning. It aims to balance fiscal discipline with community needs, ensuring sustainable growth and continued service excellence in the coming fiscal year, Phillips said. There would be major cutbacks and continued reduction of expenditures. The Town of Monument will invite public input, conduct hearings, and work to refine and finalize the budget before adoption later this year.
The Town Council usually meets on the first and third Monday of the month at the Town Hall, 645 Beacon Lite Road, at 6:30 p.m. See townofmonument.org or contact 719-481-2894
Marlene Brown can be reached at marlenebrown@ocn.me.
By Harriet Halbig
The Parent and Community Advisory Committee (PCAC) of Lewis-Palmer District 38 discussed plans for the 2025-26 school year at its Sept. 9 meeting.
Renee Butler and Kirsten Zook will serve as co-chairs for a second year.
Continuing last year’s committee goals, Zook announced that the committee will emphasize its responsibilities as an advisory committee to the Board of Education. Last year’s meetings emphasized providing information to members, while this year will emphasize group discussion. This will involve increased interchange between the board and Pcac throughout the year with respect to the district’s strategic plan and activities such as the election of two new members of the board.
In support of this goal, Zook announced that there will be a member of the board at each PCAC meeting and encouraged committee members to attend board meetings in person or view the livestream to be up to date on board discussions and priorities.
Board President Tiffiney Upchurch explained resources available to members on the district website. These include the livestream of meetings and boarddocs, which provides PowerPoint presentations from board meetings.
At this meeting, members were provided with a list of board goals based on the district strategic plan. Some examples are:
• Provide safe and healthy schools: Create a cellphone policy, balance learning and technology with mental health needs, and complete at least one physical security or safety innovation by September 2026
• Maintain academic excellence by ranking in
The Planning Commission usually meets on the second Wednesday of each month. For further information on commission meetings, please visit www.townofmonument.org/263/planning commission-commission-board-of-adjustment or contact 719-884-8028. A recording with a transcript of each meeting is also available. Janet Sellers can be reached at JanetSellers@ocn.me.
the top 10% of districts in Colorado, and elevate student experience with the Career and Innovation Center by planning for Phase 2 Pathways
• Value our people by increasing the retention rate of the most effective teachers, improving teacher compensation, and positioning D38 as a destination district for employees
• Operations and Facilities Planning to include developing a master plan for the district’s downtown property and for a permanent home for the district’s ages 18-21 Transitions program.
• Demonstrate fiscal stewardship by continuing activity by the Financial Transparency Committee and creating a multi-year forecast (by April 2026), improving the efficiency of purchasing and implementation, and refining the process for the Adopt D38 program and the role of the D38 Foundation (by December).
• Improve relationships and communications by improving the website experience to make it accessible for all (by May 2026), elevate advocacy efforts with the Legislature (by February 2026), and leverage board engagement with the schools and community by using a board evaluation process.
An administration member with expertise in each priority was available to answer questions and assist with the discussion. The committee was divided into six tables, each of which would address a goal.
After reporting on the individual discussions, members moved to a second goal for discussion followed by a voting process to determine which goals would receive priority attention during the Monument Planning Commission, Sept. 10
Barbara Lucille Elliott August 25, 1940 - August 23, 2025
Barbara Lucille Elliott crossed over to be with her Lord on August 23, 2025. She was a loving, gentle soul who enriched the lives of everyone she encountered. She is survived by many precious relatives who will miss her dearly. Barbara was born to Robert and Anna Yankee in Ashland, Wisconsin. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa, and master’s degree from Adams State. She married John Elliott in
1962 and they raised their two daughters, Liz and Gwen, in Colorado. A school teacher in Monument for nearly 20 years, Barbara was well known for her classroom’s menagerie of animals. She won the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching in 1990 and was inducted into D38’s hall of fame in 2015. Barbara and John moved to Oregon after retirement, where they spent several years on the coast before relocating to Dallas. No formal services will be held. In memory of Barbara, please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association or to an animal shelter of your choice. See https://obits.smartcremation.com/barbara-elliott for the full obituary.
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school year.
An example of discussion on priority 4 (facilities planning) was concern from a committee member that the Transitions program is unproductive. Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway said that the Transitions program is currently housed in the Career and Innovation Center building but will have a permanent home in the downtown district campus north of the administration building. He also said that the structure to house the Homeschool Enrichment Academy will be in place in early 2026.
Results of the voting will be reported at an upcoming meeting.
Superintendent Amber Whetstine introduced a new organizational chart for the district to include Amy Sienkowski as the new director of
Innovative Programs and Michaela Vanderheiden as Human Resources director. Former Human Resources Director Alicia Welch is now executive director for Education Services.
A candidate forum for the Board of Education election was held on Sept. 29, sponsored by the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce and moderated by Matt Meister. **********
The Parent and Community Advisory meets six times per year. Locations vary. The next meeting will be on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at Palmer Ridge High School, 19225 Monument Hill Road at 6 p.m. A school tour will be offered at 5:30. For further information, please contact tmckee@lewispalmer.org
Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.
By Jackie Burhans
At its regular board meeting in September, the Monument Academy (MA) board heard a proposal from a second marketing firm and voted to transfer residual equity between its campuses.
In addition, the board heard updates on Academic Achievement and the West Campus carline.
Marketing firm selected Audrey Kerchner, chief marketing strategist for Inkyma, presented a marketing proposal for services in the 2025-26 school year. Kerchner discussed the strategic plan her team put together for MA, which includes goals to enroll 125 students by 2027 focused on the high school, to invest in athletics and a new gymnasium, to describe MA’s unique program edge, and to take this strategy across multiple channels.
Kerchner further spoke on developing a brand identity and messaging using StoryBrand so MA’s message stays unified. Multi-channel campaigns would include Facebook and Instagram toward parents, and Google, YouTube, and TikTok for students, she said. She anticipated seasonal campaigns around open enrollment, open houses, breaking ground, and opening the new facilities. Campaigns would include ads, email, social media, and placement on TV screens inside waiting areas, doctors’ offices, coffee shops, etc.
Inkyma’s content strategy would be video-based with parent testimonials and student spotlights, Kerchner said. She suggested student ambassadors for TikTok or YouTube shorts to allow sharing of the student perspective. The website would be updated with the brand identity to highlight how MA prepares students with a call to action to schedule a tour. Inkyma will boost visibility and usability via search engine optimization (SEO) and answer engine optimization (AEO), which uses artificial intelligence platforms.
Kerchner said that Inkyma was results-oriented and would report on key strategic outcomes while offering ongoing oversight and optimization. She said that Inkyma was ready to move and set up a kickoff and implementation dates within 30 days.
The board asked questions about the implementation timeline, noting the importance of the October count window, five days before and after Oct. 1, and the school choice decision timeframe. Funding depends on enrollment figures.
Kerchner addressed questions about the feasibility of meeting the
125-student goal by 2027 and noted that the biggest challenge was the newness of the high school and the need to demystify charter schools.
At the end of the regular meeting, the board went into executive session for negotiations regarding selection of a marketing contract. When it returned, the board voted unanimously to move forward with Inkyma. Vice President Lindsay Clinton expanded on the comment about social media content and student involvement, saying the board would further clarify the need for parent authorization and would respect the “no media” option some parents had selected.
Equity transfer between campuses approved Chief Financial Officer Glen Gustafson told the board that government accounting allows for residual equity transfer. Gustafson said he had used this method in District 11 to transfer funds between accounts but had never seen a charter school use it to transfer funds from one school to another inside the general fund. He consulted with general counsel Brad Miller and bond counsel to ensure this was a legal maneuver, and they confirmed that they believed it was. He proposed that the board transfer $1.8 million in reserves from West Campus to East Campus by resolution, noting that the board could reverse it at any time and ensure that MA stays in compliance with all bond covenants. Gustafson added that a couple of years ago, West Campus had lent the East Campus $300,000, and this transaction would undo that as it was a temporary loan, reiterating that both the bond counsel and general counsel had approved this. He said that this would be an important piece of the puzzle when MA refinances its bonds in about six to seven months. He thought it would buy MA one year or more to increase enrollment to meet the additional debt service related to the refinancing of bonds.
Board President Ryan Graham confirmed he had reviewed the proposal, asked about counsel input, and had no objections. He moved to approve the resolution, and the board passed it unanimously.
Exceptional
Academic Achievement
Executive Director Collin Vinchattle provided an overview of the fall academic assessment data, which used data from the beginning of the year
Welcome Home!
DIBELS and NWEA assessments. Vinchattle highlighted positive results at the
elementary level, with 68% of students on grade level, noting that those grades are when kids are learning to read.
He noted that NWEA and SAT tests had both changed the goalposts. The bar was raised for reading and language and lowered for math and science to adjust to national norms. He said that reading and math were both at 68% achievement.
Vinchattle said this was a new baseline of data, and goals will be created and reviewed in the winter assessment.
Elementary carline
Elementary Principal Jessie Davis noted that safety
is the number one priority and asked that carline drivers remain attentive, pull all the way forward, follow directions for an orderly and efficient flow, and use the merge zone to avoid backups.
Davis emphasized that MA families should not use the church driveway as an exit and encouraged students to exit the school through the main doors rather than the gym entrance to avoid congestion. She noted that the biggest day for carline is Tuesday, which sees an average carline time of 38 minutes. In the best conditions, carline wait times have decreased to 33 minutes.
1517—Internet Use. Minimal changes after tech team feedback, added that use is a privilege and can be revoked, changing a job title, and renaming the policy to GBEE-MA.
1519 – Advertising. Updating mediums, changing a job title, legal wording about not creating contractual obligations, ability to reject ad at discretion, and renaming policy to KHB-MA.
1520 – Public Comment to the Board. Minimal changes in the signup sheet, changing a job title, consolidating some language, and renaming policy BEDH-MA.
tal income for all three schools was $170,000 in its first month. She confirmed that audited financials would be needed for the S&P rating.
• Student Accountability and Advisory Committee—West Campus. Clinton reported that the SAAC had met on Sept. 4 to review its bylaws and suggest edits to bring to the board.
• Buildings and Facilities. Graham reported that the noisy HVAC unit had been fixed thanks to Operations Manager Jake Dicus.
• In addition to our Independence Day Parade, last year, Kiwanis projects provided more than $100,000 and thousands of volunteer hours to programs and groups that benefit our communities.
• Come to our 8:00 AM meeting and experience how you and the community benefit from participation.
• The Heart of Monument Play Park is an effort to build a safe play space for people of all ages and abilities. It is a joint effort of the Monument Presbyterian Church, the Town of Monument and Kiwanis. Visit https://heartofmonument.org/whats-happening to see how you can help.
Meeting Saturdays @ Big Red (146 N Jefferson) 8:00 AM monumenthillkiwanis@gmail.com web:MHKiwanis.org We Have Opportunities To Serve The Tri-Lakes Communities. Join Us. The Rewards are Tremendous.
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Davis said she was working on having people park in the dirt lot and walk to pick up their students to avoid creating congestion. Vinchattle said he had heard feedback that some people don’t feel comfortable using that lot since there is no sidewalk, and offered to research costs.
Davis said she used ParentSquare and letters to parents and teachers to communicate about carline. If anyone has suggestions or questions, they should contact Davis directly.
Policy updates
The board unanimously approved the following policy updates:
1521 – Student Fees. Updating forms of payment, changing a job title, adding waiver information, and renaming policy to JQ-MA.
Board policies can be found at https://tinyurl.com/mapolicies.
Highlights
Board meeting highlights include:
• Executive Director. Vinchattle reported on Back to School Night, athletics, and homecoming events, including the Powder Puff game.
• Finance Director Laura Polen reviewed the July financials by school and fund, saying that to-
• Resources and Development. Clinton said the committee met on Sept. 3 to review last year’s measures, analyze the purpose of the committee, and brainstorm areas to focus on for the current year.
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The MA School Board meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month.
The next regular board meeting was moved to Thursday, Oct. 16, at 6:30 p.m. at the East Campus. The agenda and packet are available at tinyurl.com/maboarddocs.
Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of education, Sept. 15
State assessment results; school accreditation; Career and Innovation Center update
By Harriet Halbig
The Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education discussed a number of topics related to the new school year and district activities at its Sept. 15 meeting.
State assessment results
Dr. Michael Brom, director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, presented the results of last spring’s state assessments. These assessments included the Colorado Measures of
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Academic Success (CMAS) in English Language Arts, Math, and Science, and the PSAT tests for grades 9 and 10 and the SAT test for grade 11. Brom’s report supports district priority 2, academic excellence.
Brom explained that the state Board of Education accredits school districts and in turn school districts accredit schools in their jurisdiction in September. The board voted to accredit all district schools in a subsequent vote.
Brom explained that districts are ranked on the basis of academic excellence, academic growth, and post-secondary readiness regarding matriculation rates, dropout rates, and graduation rates.
The district ranked in the top 12% of districts (22 of 184) for the 2024-25 school year. The board had stated a goal of the 85th percentile in each area of study for academic achievement and 50% for growth. Growth can only be measured for students who participated in the assessment for two consecutive years. The district also has a goal of 85% participation in assessments.
The science assessment is given only in grades 5, 8, and 11.
Brom offered a detailed presentation including scores for individual schools and Monument Academy. He pointed out that middle school results for Monument Academy include grades 6 through 8 while other D38 middle school results include grades 7 and 8 only.
In answer to a question, Brom said that the matriculation rate includes those enrolled in two- or four-year programs or the military. In D38, however, a number of students are enrolled in programs that offer college credit while in high school,
Above: At the Sept. 15 School District 38 board meeting, Director of Planning, Facilities, and Grounds Melissa Andrews honored Nunn Construction and Hollis + Miller Architects for being the vision behind the design/remodel of the new Career Innovation Center. Andrews said this was a fast-track project and every renovation brings surprises, but the team was adaptable and budget-conscious. D38 has a space that reflects the future of learning, Andrews said. From left are Tiffiney Upchurch, Board of Education president; Andrews; Danielle Dratch and Megan Burke with Hollis + Miller Architects; and Chris Sparks with Nunn Construction. Photo provided by D38.
Above: At the Sept. 15 School District 38 board meeting, Director of Communications Amy Matisek introduced staff from all the departments that helped the CIC open to students on Aug. 25. She noted that Transportation, Grounds, Maintenance, and Warehouse staff gave extra time including over the weekend to make it happen, representing D38’s core value of respect. Director of Innovative Programs Amy Sienkowski said the effort was huge, and it took everyone on the list to get it done. She also thanked the Transitions staff and the Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers for their efforts. From left are Ricky Vestal, Grounds Department; Tiffiney Upchurch, Board of Education president; Leo Porier, Maintenance Department; Spencer Larsen, Grounds Department; Sienkowski; Eric Wall, central campus; Caleb Stevenson, Transportation Department; Amber Whetstine, superintendent; and Dave Routson, Grounds Department. Photo provided by D38.
and the Career and Innovation Center (CIC) will also offer programs that result in professional certification. These categories are not represented in the state statistics.
Board President Tiffiney Upchurch asked how smaller groups such as those in special education appear in the statistics. Brom responded that a group category only appears separately if there are more than 16 students for achievement or 20 students for growth. The district is aware that students in smaller groups require more intense attention and monitors them carefully.
Superintendent Amber Whetstine said that all students appear in the high-level data.
Board Treasurer Ron Schwarz requested information on how the district compares to similar districts nationwide.
To view detailed results by school, please see boarddocs under the Board of Education tab at lewispalmer.org
Career and Innovation Center update Director of Innovative Programs
Amy Sienkowski reported that students began classes at the new location on Aug. 25, and an open house for staff was held on Sept. 15.
There are 170 students enrolled at the center for the first and second semesters of the 2025-26 school year. Courses include Advanced Manufacturing (primarily welding), aerospace and electronic engineering, architectural and civil engineering, and a capstone project in homebuilding.
The Bearbotics robotic team and the Transitions program are also housed in the CIC building.
Sienkowski also said that Lewis-Palmer High School and Palmer Ridge High School currently offer classes in health science in advance of this subject being offered at the CIC. Other future offerings include Artificial Intelligence and the design and construction of unmanned aircraft.
Representatives from Nunn Construction and Hollis + Miller Architects were recognized for their contributions to the construction and redesign of the building, and district staff from many departments were recognized for their work in the final weekend before opening the center to students. A plaque naming all of those involved will be permanently displayed in the center. For further details on the recognitions, please see boarddocs.
Financial planning and analysis
Chief Business Officer Brett Ridgway
orities. Ridgway said that the principals appreciate having the graphic representation of priorities.
When asked the number of employees in the district, Ridgway said 751 individuals are considered “regular” employees, those who receive a regular paycheck. This would include office staff, teachers,
transportation, food services, and administration. In another category are stipended employees, such as coaches.
Turnover figures include those who remained in the district but changed jobs.
reported that September is a light month for his department due to the district calendar. The fiscal year begins July 1 and the student count is done around Oct. 1. The district is preparing for the annual audit.
A new feature of the financial planning process is a poster to be displayed at each school for that location’s capital improvement pri-
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Announcement of candidates
Upchurch announced that two board seats are up for election in November. Tim Bennett is running for District 1, and Jackie Burhans and Ginger Schaaf are running for District 3. There will be a candidate forum on Sept. 29, and all are welcome to attend and submit questions. The forum will be livestreamed on the lewispamer.org website.
Board goals approved
The board voted to approve a list of goals for the coming year. These are
By Natalie Barszcz
At the Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District (TLMFPD) dba Monument Fire District (MFD) meeting on Sept. 24, a vacant board seat was filled. The board approved the purchase of a training tower for the future Station 1 training center and the purchase of a wildland engine for 2026.
The board received a workforce analysis presentation to help determine future staffing requirements for the next five years. The delayed 2024 audits and financial statements were accepted.
A pinning-on promotion ceremony was held before the meeting at the district administrative offices for two promotions. See photos at the right.
The board held an executive session pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes section 24-6-402(4)(e) to determine positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiations, and to instruct negotiators relating to labor negotiations.
Secretary Duane Garrett was excused.
Board vacancy filled Treasurer Tom Kelly welcomed André Mouton as the newly appointed director to the Board of Directors.
arranged by strategic plan category and completion date. Please see boarddocs for the list.
Upchurch suggested including the cost of each goal in the document.
Note: The Parent and Community Advisory Committee discussed these goals in detail at its Sept. 9 meeting. Please see the article about that committee on page 6.
High School student representatives Lewis-Palmer High School seniors
Caroline Anderson and Aiden Pepper attended the meeting. They showed a presentation about school activities, including homecoming and the annual Harvest of Love drive. The school fight song has been rewritten to be more inclusive.
The original song referred to football, and the new version refers to trying your best, so it can be used in all gatherings, including those about academic excellence in addition to sports.
Student representatives are wel-
come to participate in discussions and ask questions but are not authorized to vote as they are not elected members of the board
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The Lewis-Palmer D38 Board of Education meets at 6 p.m. on the third Monday of each month in the district learning center, 146 N. Jefferson St. in Monument. For information, contact vwood@lewispalmer.org. Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me. Monument Fire District, Sept. 24
President Mark Gunderman welcomed Mouton and said he was glad he could “enter the fray” on short notice to fill the vacant seat left by Director Cody Peterson after he decided to step down for personal and professional reasons.
Mouton said he has lived in the community since 2010, working with the district and the community through a local church group on fire mitigation and emergency management. He was an emergency manager at the Air Force Academy, now working on critical infrastructure protection and cybersecurity with the Department of Homeland Security. “I am excited to be a member of the team and serve once again,” said Mouton.
Training Tower order approved
Division Chief of Administration
Jamey Bumgarner requested the board approve a contract with Lone Star Tactical Buildings Construction for a three-story modular training tower that can be extended to four stories in the future at the Station 1 Training Center. The 2025 budgeted training tower is estimated to cost about $1.4 million. The building requires permitting even though it will not be permanently occupied, he said.
In a 6-0 vote, the board approved the contract for the training tower.
Bumgarner said that all the facilities projects are moving along, and OZ Architects had won the best station design award from the Fire Industry Resource Organization for the design of the district’s Station 3 rebuild project.
Wildland engine approved Bumgarner requested the board consider approving a contract for Boise Mobile Equipment to build out a stock Type 2 “Big Horn” edi-
tion, four-wheel drive engine, a structural 1,000 gallon per minute pump, pump and roll capability, with a 750-gallon water carrying capacity. The expected delivery is the first or second quarter of 2026. The district’s Type 3 Wildland Engine is deploying and serves the district well, helping deployed crews gain wildland experience. The Type 2 Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) engine would remain in the district and be “big brother” to the existing Type 3 Wildland Engine during deployments, said Bumgarner.
Above: From left, Kovacs administers the oath of office to Lt. Derek Thorne, promoted from firefighter/paramedic. Kovacs presented a red helmet to Thorne and said he was selected after a competitive promotion process to fill the position vacated by retired Lt. Kevin Richmond. His spouse Jessica Thorne pinned on the new badges during the ceremony also attended by his parents, Debbie and Dave Thorne. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.
Above: From left, Kovacs administers the oath of office to Janarka Branden on his promotion to Division Chief of Operations from the executive battalion chief position that has been omitted from the organization. Kovacs presented Branden with a new helmet and said the new position was created to allow more effective management of the operations. His spouse Cheryl Branden pinned on the new badges during the ceremony. Their children, Kaderen, Everett, and Luke, attended the event. Photo by Natalie Barszcz.
Director Tim De Leon said the Type 2 engine will be a great addition during adverse weather.
Fire Chief Andy Kovacs said impact fees are now allowed to be collected throughout El Paso County, but the district has not been spending enough of those collected fees. Some have been used to purchase land for future stations. He proposed exhausting those fees of about $600,000 collected impact fees and pay cash for the remainder (about $200,000) for the engine costing about $782,189. The apparatus purchase will be included in the 2026 budget. It is anticipated the apparatus will be assigned to Station 5 (Highway 83) where wildland fire incidents are prevalent.
The board approved the purchase in a 6-0 vote.
Financial update
Treasurer Tom Kelly said the district is at 66.7 % of the total budget year to date as of Aug. 31, and presented the following:
• The combined overall revenue received year to date is about $20.744 million and 81.8 % of the 2025 income projected annual revenue set at about $24.235 million.
• Overall expenses year to date are about $12.297 million and 53.1 % of the projected expense budget set at about $18.764 million.
• The district had about $23.492 million in total checking/savings (about $14.500 million in Operations/General Fund). The balance will reduce significantly over the next six months before the property taxes are received in March 2026. Kelly said the district had received 99% of the property taxes for 2025 and about $17.8 million year-to-date.
All 22 electronic transactions were appropriate and within budget, and of note were:
• $10,676, OZ Architects, FS3 Training Center
• $5,295, MiXx Consulting, Workforce Analysis Study (partial payment)
The board accepted the financial report as presented, 6-0.
2024 audit reports
Kovacs said the district had just received the 2024 audits and financial reports for MFD and Donald Wescott Fire Protection District from CBIZ, and the reports will be presented at the October meeting. There are no changes since the CBIZ auditor presentation in June, and the known deficiencies have been removed since first noted. The audit has taken about six months due to auditor leadership changes.
Gunderman said the extended time to deliver the audits is unprofessional, and he and the other board members would understand if a different auditor was selected for 2026 to conduct the 2025 audit.
In a 6-0 vote, the board accepted the 2024 audits and financial reports.
Workforce Analysis tudy Melissa Rossback, founder of MiXx consulting attending via Microsoft Teams,
presented the findings of the Workforce Analysis Study and said that during the study each job description was explored, and the future growth of the district was taken into consideration. The current load and span of control had led to required changes in a phased approach, said Rossback.
Rossback recommended the following:
• Phase 1 – Adding two community risk reduction officer positions to assist with inspections and assist Division Chief of Risk Reduction Jonathan Bradley, who operates alone. An administrative specialist with cross-training in finance and human resources.
Victoria Slater recently hired to fill the Accreditation Officer position could fill a Public Information Officer (PIO) position in the near future.
• Phase 2 – A facilities and fleet technician. Two dedicated training officers to ensure consistency in training and relieve existing staff. And an educator to pro-
vide fire prevention and life safety education to the community.
• Phase 3 – Factors in the long-term organizational structure, and
allows time to plan for the financial lift, adding a permanent PIO position; a data analyst position to support the accreditation manager,
a community risk reduction permit technician/ receptionist, an executive administrative assistant for clerical functions in support of the
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Jackie Burhans
Dedicated
“Butch” Eversole, Music Educator
"No one shows more loyalty to our district or more genuine concern for the education of our students ”
Butch” E ersole, No l conc stud
Theresa Phillips, Former D38 Board
“Jackie is a collaborative leader with the policy acumen needed to be exceptionally effective!
Rob Pike, Former D38 Board
“Jackie brings exactly what our schools need right now: a clear vision for student success, a steady hand for decisionmaking, and a genuine dedication to listening to parents, teachers, and students ”
Laura Kronick, Community Leader
h resa Fo Jackie is collabora neede effectiv ob D Jackie clea ackie sta lunteer i
“Jackie stands out due to her extensive volunteer work and her dedication to communicating with the community about D38 issues, values, and solutions "
Racquel Garcia, CEO HardBeauty I want leaders who truly understand what it means to serve every child Jackie Burhans doesn’t just support education she supports families and the community as a whole "
Gabriele LaCrampe, Realtor/Owner
"Jackie Burhans [is a], a highly qualified and passionate candidate who has dedicated years of her time, energy, and expertise to improving public education in our community
chief, and a full-time accountant (the district added a parttime bookkeeper in 2025). The district anticipates an increase in EMS calls and the need for a dedicated EMS battalion chief. Phase 1 meets the immediate needs for 2026, phase 2 should be rolled out over the course of 2027 and 2028, and phase 3 over the next five years, said Rossback.
Kovacs said state funding for the mandated WUI infrastructure property inspections is not available, and the district will enforce the inspections. During 2026 budget planning, the fee schedule will be adjusted to provide some funding for the new inspector positions. There is a state
By James Howald
WUI board to ensure compliance.
Emergency planner proposed Kovacs said the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has proposed providing an emergency planner working out of the OEM offices and be present during winter storms. The salary would be shared between the Monument Police Department and the district, paying $40,000 each for a total salary and benefits package of $80,000.
Pumpkin giveaway, Oct. 25
The Local 4319 Monument professional firefighters’ annual pumpkin giveaway is scheduled for Oct. 25 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Clock Tower at Monument Marketplace, 15986 Jackson Creek Park-
way. The Local 4319 is collecting non-perishable food items for the Tri-Lakes Cares annual food drive. The community appreciation event includes live music and free candy.
Administrative office move
The district administrative offices have permanently moved to 19775 Mitchell Ave. Executive session
The board moved into an executive session at about 5:50 p.m., pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes section 24-6-402(4)(e) to determine positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiations, and to instruct negotiators relating to labor negotiations. Kovacs confirmed to this report-
er that when the board returned to regular session at 6:45 p.m., no action was taken and the meeting adjourned at 6:46 p.m.
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Meetings are usually held on the fourth Wednesday every month. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Oct. 22 at 4:30 p.m. at Station 1, 18650 Highway 105. For Microsoft Teams virtual joining instructions, agendas, minutes, and updates, visit www.monumentfire.org or contact Director of Administration Jennifer Martin at 719-484-9011. Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz@ocn.me.
Board plans for Accessory Dwelling Units
At its September meeting, the Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District (WWSD) board began planning how to integrate Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) into its existing policies, specifications, and procedures. The board also heard financial and operational reports. District Manager Jessie Shaffer told the board that he, in consultation with the office staff, had decided to continue with Xpress Bill Pay as the district’s online billing provider. The meeting ended with an executive session.
ADUs present challenges District Manager Jessie Shaffer told the board that he, District Engineer Cydney Saelens, and Operations Superintendent Dan LaFontaine had discussed the many issues raised by ADUs and had decided to come to the board for direction.
Shaffer said he had received two requests from district residents for approval to move forward with construction of ADUs. An ADU is a secondary housing unit on a singlefamily residential lot that does not require subdivision. They are also called guest houses, granny flats, mother-in-law suites, and backyard cottages, Shaffer said. They may be attached, detached, or integrated, Shaffer said. Integrated ADUs use basements or upper floors as the secondary unit.
Last year, the Colorado Legislature passed House Bill 24-1152,
Shaffer said, which requires certain land use jurisdictions to allow ADUs.
The law says jurisdictions can’t regulate parking or require the primary unit to be occupied by the owner.
The law, which went into effect June 30, also prevents the unreasonable restriction of ADUs, he said.
Shaffer pointed out that WWSD’s existing regulations do not define or provide guidance regarding ADUs.
He listed several questions and concerns, including:
• Must ADUs have their own water and sewer taps, and require the payment of tap fees?
• People are trying to figure out how to get an ADU approved without paying additional fees.
• “Daisy-chaining” of service lines—essentially adding the ADU to the existing service lines—raises concerns about water pressure and sewer flow.
• El Paso County mandates that ADUs not have separate metering.
Shaffer said WWSD needed to update its rules and regulations to include a clear definition of an ADU. He opened a discussion with the board concerning tap fees, service line sizes, and several other technical aspects.
Following a lengthy discussion, Shaffer summarized the direction of the board as follows:
• ADUs cannot buy separate taps; they must use a “daisy-chain configuration.”
• Water lines must be upgraded from ¾-inch lines to 1-inch lines, and the ADU owner must pay the differential costs arising from the larger service line.
• ADUs will not require an increase in sewer fees.
• ADUs will not pay an additional Renewable Water Infrastructure Fee.
• The volume tiers for ADUs will not change.
• Separate billing will not be allowed.
Board President Brian Bush said he thought interest in ADUs would diminish once the costs were understood.
Financial and operational reports
Director Roy Martinez gave the board a financial report in place of board Treasurer Dana Franzen, who was excused from the meeting. Martinez said the district’s finances are “on track overall.” Bush commented that revenue from water sales was lower than expected, but the water level in Woodmoor Lake was higher than expected.
The board voted unanimously to accept Martinez’s report.
In his operations report, LaFontaine noted that water usage in August was up over July, but still less than normal. Reduced usage contributed to the fact that the water level in the lake was seven feet higher than expected.
In her Engineering report, Saelens updated the board on work being done on two water storage tanks. Preload, which is constructing a new concrete water tank, has finished construction and planned to start coating the tank on Sept. 15. Coblaco, the company hired to recoat the existing storage tank, was scheduled to begin its work on Sept. 22.
District to remain with Xpress Bill Pay
Shaffer told the board that Xpress Bill Pay had fixed its problems with billing errors, and he and Office Manager Cory Lynch recommended remaining with that vendor instead of transitioning to Cassell.
Executive session
The meeting ended with an executive session for the board to receive legal counsel regarding potential agreements with the Loop Water Authority and Tallgrass Colorado Municipal Water LLC. No action was taken following the executive session.
**********
The next meeting is on Oct. 13 at 1 p.m. Meetings are usually held on the second Monday of each month at 1 p.m. at the district office at 1845 Woodmoor Drive. Please see www.woodmoorwater.com or call 719-488-2525 to verify meeting times and locations.
James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.
By Jackie Burhans
and James Howald
At a brief meeting in September, the Monument Sanitation District (MSD) board heard an operational report from District Manager Mark Parker that focused on the work that El Paso County has planned for Beacon Lite Road. The board also discussed the process for developing a budget for 2026.
County plans to level and straighten road Parker told the board that El Paso County was pressing ahead with plans to level Beacon Lite Road, straighten it, and add curbs and gutters. The county’s current focus was on planning the changes required to utilities. Parker said there had been
several meetings with the county, and its construction plans are 90% complete. MSD’s portion of the project, which lies between Wakonda Way North and County Line Road, was being worked on by GMS Inc., Parker said.
Parker said the sewer service portion of the project depends on whether the Buc-ee’s travel center is built, because Buc-ee’s would have to pay for any required improvements. If the travel center is not built, then any other development at the site would have to bear the expense of digging up a new road.
Budget process begins Parker told the board that he had a draft of the 2026 budget but was waiting for some final numbers from
the Tri-Lakes Wastewater Treatment Facility. He said he was on track to have the budget prepared for discussion at the end of the year.
**********
Monument Sanitation District meetings are held at 9 a.m. on the third Wednesday of the month in the district conference room at 130 Second St., Monument. The next regular
By Natalie Barszcz
meeting is scheduled for Oct 15. See MonumentSanitationDistrict.org. For a district service map, see www. MonumentSanitationDistrict.org/ district-map. For information: 719481-4886.
Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.
uled start of the meeting. Board President Jason Gross requested approval of item 4, the meeting agenda, at 5:28 p.m.
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The Triview Metropolitan District (TMD) meeting on Sept. 18 began several minutes before the scheduled time. The board heard the Higby Road project had been delayed until early October. The board president requested that the staff provide a fire mitigation plan for areas around Sanctuary Pointe, heard about a beautification and safety plan for the drainage area north of Strata Drive in Home Place Ranch, and asked that residents be provided with a trail map of the district.
The board held an executive session to discuss the purchase and sale of water and land and agreements with the Town of Monument (TOM) and other governmental, private, and associated entities.
Note: In Colorado, a special district meeting called to order earlier than the publicly announced time defeats the purpose of the public notice requirements.
Financial report
Director John Gibbons had many comments and questions regarding the financial reports, and he requested the financial report pages indicate the year-to-date actual month for whatever month the report represents. He said the requested changes were made in August but had not been made in time for the September meeting. He requested the changes be made before the October meeting.
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Secretary/Treasurer Amanda Carlton was excused.
Note: This reporter attended via Zoom, but sound issues occurred throughout the meeting.
Meeting began earlier than scheduled
The meeting was called to order before the designated 5:30 p.m. sched-
Note: This reporter has not received a financial report from TMD for the past several months. The board financial reports are available up to May 31, 2025 at https://triviewmetro.com.
TRiview (Cont. on 14)
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In a 4-0 vote, the board accepted the financial report and the checks over $5,000.
Higby Road project update
District Manager James McGrady said Kiewit had anticipated beginning the Higby Road project in early September, but after discovering the utility pipes were buried at different levels, the widening/enhancement project will begin in early October. For additional information about the project, visit https://triviewhigbyroad.com.
Water operations update
Water Treatment Superintendent Gary Potter said Well A7 was underproducing at 60 gallons per minute and usually produces 200 gallons per minute. He proposed the pump be replaced in 2026. Taking Well A7 offline does not limit the district because of the arrival of cooler weather. The well is located at B Plant alongside another well that is offline. The repairs for both will be discussed during the budget process. He said it is good to ensure the wells are able to pump when needed to supplement the district’s water conveyed through the Northern Delivery System (NDS) via Colorado Springs Utilities. The district will be back to delivering 95% of the district’s water through the NDS for the winter, said Potter.
Water quality testing
Assistant Manager Steve Sheffield said the fourth set of water quality samples at the Stonewall Springs Reservoir Complex were taken in Sep-
By James Howald and Jackie Burhans
At its September meeting, the Donala Water and Sanitation District (DWSD) board heard a financial report and a presentation on the 2026 budget from Acting General Manager Christina Hawker. The board heard operational reports from district staff. The meeting ended with an executive session
Financial report
Hawker told the board the district would not reach its budgeted water sales for the year unless September and October were warmer and drier than usual instead of cooler and wetter. Expenditures are also under budgeted amounts, she said. The Upper Monument Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility (UMCRWWTF) was “spot on” with 32% of its budget remaining.
She noted larger expenses for water tank rehabilitation, the Well 7D redrill, and water storage in the Pueblo Reservoir.
The board voted unanimously to accept the financial report.
Budget highlights
In her preview of the 2026 budget, Hawker noted inflation factors including:
• Tariffs are contributing to the rise in health insurance premiums, primarily due to increased costs for imported medications. She anticipated a 17% increase in insurance costs.
• Building and automotive insurance costs are rising because of tariffs on lumber, steel, and aluminum. She expects those costs to increase 8% to 25%.
• The cost of chemicals will increase by 4%.
• Salary and wage increases are projected to be 3.5%, which is in line with the utility industry across the board.
• DWSD’s payment to Colorado Springs Utilities to convey, treat, and deliver its Willow Creek Ranch water to DWSD customers is expected to rise by 6.5%.
• Electricity costs for the second half of 2026 are predicted to increase by 9%.
In her cost-of-service review, Hawker discussed three scenarios:
• Scenario 1, in which the R. Hull Plant is rehabilitated, the Aquifer Storage and Retrieval (ASR) pilot project is fully funded, and water and sewer rates are increased by 5% annually from 2025 to 2033. This scenario has a total capital improvement cost of $17.87 million.
• Scenario 2, in which the ASR pilot is fully funded, the Loop water reuse project annual payments are made, $2.8 million is spent on well rehabilitation, and rates are increased by 5% from 2025 to 2033. This scenario has a total capital improvement cost of $23.6 million.
• Scenario 3, in which only the 5% rate increases are put in place. Hawker did not give a total capital improvement cost for this scenario. Hawker reviewed DWSD’s reserve fund balances:
• The Bond Reserve balance is $1.25 million.
• The Capital Reserve balance is $3.7 million.
• The Operating Reserve balance is $3.2 million.
• The Strategic Planning Reserve is $3.9 million.
• Total reserves are $12.1 million.
Hawker listed the costs of six capital projects to be addressed in 2026:
• Latrobe tank rehabilitation: $500,000.
• Camera inspection of sewer system: $296,000.
• Well 9A maintenance: $350,000.
tember. The water quality testing of five sets of water samples is required by the state Division of Mining, Reclamation Safety before a permit can be issued for the district to construct a slurry wall for the Central Reservoir.
Director requests
Gross requested the district pursue the following:
• A fire mitigation plan for the entire district to eliminate excess brush and the potential for wildland fire. He requested the staff present a formal plan by July 2026 to share with Homeowners Associations.
• Develop a plan for the Home Place Ranch retaining pond to avoid a massive eyesore and the potential for a liability issue.
• A map showing all of the official trails in the district, potentially closing unmaintained trails, and hiring a trained staff member to build trails with erosion control and trail maintenance knowledge. Documenting the trails on a map to show who maintains the trails and noting the mileage and the elevation changes. When loaded on the website, it will benefit the residents.
McGrady said the following:
• The Fire Department has assessed areas in the past. Some HOAs have already held chipping days and become Firewise neighborhoods.
• Due to safety issues, something may need to be done ahead of build-out, but Home Place Ranch will likely need to reach build-out before the detention pond area can be com-
• Cost analysis for the R. Hull Treatment Plant: $119,000.
• Laughlin water rights legal work: $73,535.
• Total costs: $1.6 million.
Operational reports
In her Acting General Manager’s report, Hawker noted that the board of the Loop water reuse project had agreed to move ahead with its discussion of a public-private partnership agreement with Tallgrass Water. Public-private partnership agreements often involve the private party providing the funds to build a project and then receiving reimbursement, plus interest, from the operating revenue.
Hawker also gave the board an update on the open house the district held on Sept. 25 at the district’s offices at 15850 Holbein Dr., adjacent to the newly redrilled Well 7D. Attendees saw highlights of the district’s 2025 projects and met district staff. She said 100 people had RSVPed for the event. See the snapshots section on page 21.
In his water report, Superintendent of Water Operations Ronny Wright told the board that the recoating of the West Tank was almost complete, with only paint touchups, washing and disinfection, and a 24-hour rest period yet to be completed.
Waste Plant Operator Aaron Tolman told the
pleted because the area has its own sub-district. It could take time to complete since only 50 homes have sold, sales have slowed, and about 300 homes are planned.
• The district has documented the trails it is responsible for maintaining, and a base map exists. Some of the trails in Sanctuary Pointe were built by the developers, some belong to El Paso County, and others in that area are unofficial single-track hiking trails that are steep and difficult to maintain. The district staff will need to walk the trails to document the distances, and during slow periods crews can provide maintenance.
Executive session
The board moved into executive session at about 8:25 p.m., to receive legal advice pursuant to CRS section 24-6-402(4)(b), as it relates to water matters and agreements with the TOM, and other governmental entities.
Sheffield confirmed to this reporter that no action was taken when the board returned to the regular session. The meeting adjourned at 9:35 p.m. **********
Meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of the month at the district office located at 16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 302. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Oct. 16 at 5:30 p.m. For meeting agendas, minutes, and updates, visit https://triviewmetro.com. Natalie Barszcz can be reached at nataliebarszcz@ocn.me.
board that all wastewater measurements were well within limits. He commented on district staff encountering people camping under the train trestle bridge near the UMCRWWTF, and said the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office had been contacted.
Executive session
The September meeting ended with an executive session for the board to confer with the district’s attorney on workplace complaints.
After the executive session, the board returned to open session and voted “to reaffirm the President and Vice President’s authority to liaise with General Counsel on legal matters on behalf of the board.”
The next board meeting is on Thursday, Oct. 16 at 1:30 p.m. Generally, board meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month at 1:30 p.m. and include online access; call (719) 488-3603 or access www.donalawater.org to receive up-to-date meeting information. The district office is located at 15850 Holbein Drive, Colorado Springs. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
el Paso County Regional Loop water Authority, Sept. 25 Contract for reservoir expansion design awarded
By James Howald
At its September meeting, the El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority (EPCRLWA, or the Loop) board awarded a contract to design the expansion of the Calhan Reservoir. Corben Fromm, of Fromm and Co. LLC, reported on the Loop’s finances. Finally, the board decided to discontinue their monthly workshop meetings.
CDM Smith to design reservoir expansion
Patricia Hutchinson, a civil design engineer with Merrick and Co., who is acting as the Loop’s workflow manager and coordinating the work being done by the consulting and engineering companies contributing to the project, told the board that two companies had been interviewed on Oct. 10 for the role of designing the expansion of the Calhan Reservoir, where water diverted from Fountain Creek will be stored before being delivered to customers in the participating water districts. She recommended the board award the contract to CDM Smith, which had proposed to do the design work for $426,000. CDM Smith’s proposal included a geotechnical survey, she said.
Board President Jessie Shaffer moved to award the contract to CDM Smith, and the board voted unanimously in favor.
Financial matters
Fromm told the board that invoices totaling $199,000 had been received in September. The
board approved paying the invoices. In his financial statement, Fromm said his company was waiting to receive reimbursement from the El Paso County Board of Commissioners (EPBOCC) for the Loop’s first-quarter expenses. A reimbursement request for second-quarter expenses had been submitted to the EPBOCC. The Loop had spent 9% of its budget for 2025, Fromm said. Fromm told the board he expected to have a draft of the 2026 budget ready by Oct. 15.
Workshop meetings discontinued Shaffer asked the board if the monthly work sessions were still needed. Assistant Secretary Dan LaFontaine said there were too many meetings, and some regularly scheduled meetings were less effective because the attendees from the consulting and engineering companies varied from meeting to meeting. The board decided to discontinue the meetings. **********
The next regular meeting is scheduled for Oct. 16 at 9 a.m. Regular meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 9 a.m. at the Monument Town Hall at 645 Beacon Lite Road. Please see loopwater.org or call 719-488-3603 to verify meeting times and locations. James Howald can be reached at jameshowald@ocn.me.
el Paso Board of County Commissioners, Sept. 2, 9, and 23 County approves park services
By Marlene Brown
The El Paso Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) met on Sept. 2 on the Procurements and Contracts Consent Calendar. The board voted on approval of Matrix Design Group to provide construction management services for the Fox Run Regional Park Pond and Gazebo Renovation project, for the Parks Department. The project area is
about 4 acres in the northern section of the park. The area includes parking areas, trails, a gazebo, an amphitheater, two ponds, and a small building containing two restrooms and a meeting room, currently called the Warming Hut.
The project will include reconstruction of the existing gazebo and improvements to the amphitheater to ensure access according to the Ameri-
Donala water and Sanitation District, Sept. 11 2026 budget planning kicks off
October 4, 2025
cans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The two ponds will be dredged and fitted with a synthetic pond liner. The contract for Matrix is not to exceed $37,000. The project’s total is $244,175. Commissioner Holly Williams made a motion to approve Matrix’s contract, and it was approved 5-0.
At the meeting on Sept. 9, a proclamation was approved recognizing Sept. 11 as Patriot Day and a National Day of Service and Remembrance 2025. Also, a proclamation was approved recognizing Sept. 17 as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day 2025. The board encourages residents of El Paso County to show their appreciation for the Constitution by studying and educating the younger generation on the importance of the system of government the Constitution helped to
By Marlene Brown
create. Both proclamations were approved 5-0.
On Sept. 23, the board considered two resolutions. One was a proposed Intergovernmental Agreement regarding compliance and stewardship of certain parcels of the New Santa Fe Regional Trail. El Paso County owns and maintains the New Santa Fe Trail between Baptist Road and the Town of Monument. An adjacent landowner requested two crossings of the trail to service the Santa Fe Park development, two vehicle crossings, and two pedestrian crossings. Approval to modify the regional trail must come from the National Park Service, El Paso County, and the Town of Monument, so an Intergovernmental Agreement regarding compliance and stewardship of certain parcels was needed.
The other was the approval of a Special Warranty Deed for the portion of the trail mentioned in the first resolution. The county owns the land and deeds to the Town of Monument for maintenance and compliance regarding development. Both resolutions were approved 4-0-1. Holly Williams was absent.
BOCC meetings are normally held on Tuesdays at 9 a.m. at the Centennial Hall Auditorium, 200 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed via Live Stream at https://clerkandrecorder.elpasoco. com/clerk-to-the-board/meeting-live-stream/ Marlene Brown can be contacted at marlenebrown@ocn.me.
Fox Run Nature Center on hold
The El Paso County Parks Department announced on Sept. 2 that the Fox Run Nature Center project has been put on hold. A strategic decision was made due to the current economic environment, said Todd Matrs, executive director. The project began in 2013 when it was identified in the El Paso County Master Plan as a need in the commu-
By Marlene Brown
The Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations (NEPCO) held its General Membership meeting on Sept. 13. President Mike Aspenson acknowledged the member homeowners associations (HOAs) in the room. There were 22 HOAs represented of the 49 member HOAs, and guest speakers Meggan Herington and Jack Ladley.
Aspenson announced that the board elections will be held at the next meeting in November. Four positions are open. Harold Larson, memberat-large, will head the Nomination Committee. For more information and to discuss possible board positions, email info@nepco.com.
Guest speakers Herington, executive director for Planning and Community Development for El Paso County since January 2024, has over 20 years of experience in various roles in planning and development. She was Planning Department director in Monument for a year, starting in June 2021. The responsibilities of the director include: department oversight with over 30 employees and knowing the current state legislation impacting county land use, zoning processes, and land development code updates.
The Planning Department is considered quasi-judicial. When dealing with zoning codes and land development, there are processes to deal with. It proceeds from a notice to a fair hearing to an evaluation of factors that pertain to the proposed use to decision-making.
Some of the legislation in the state Senate that pertains to code includes wildland fire protection and mitigation and structure hardening requirements including roofing, gutters, and vents. Regulations regarding materials used, retaining walls and fences, and trees and plants are followed. Trees and plants should be away from structures because they can become fuel for fire.
In May 2024, the update of the Land Development Code (LDC) began. In 2024-25, researching the old code and implementing new code led to a draft of LDC. Starting in September through February 2026, the draft will be available for public review, with adoption of the new LDC sometime in spring 2026. To look at the updates and/or par-
nity, and again in the 2021 Master Plan. “While El Paso County remains in a strong financial position, we recognize the same is not true for many in our community,” said Matrs.
The economic changes of the past year—rapidly rising material costs, supply chain issues, and the enormous financial needs of the non-profit community competing for limited grants and
ticipate in the Land Development Code project, go to www.elpasocountyldc.com.
Ladley, executive director of the Public Works Department, has been with the county since 2021. He has been deputy director and interim director since October 2024 and became director in July 2025. He is a 25-year veteran of the Air Force and has 38 years combined military and public-sector experience in infrastructure and operations.
Ladley oversees the Highway Division, Engineering, Fleet Management, and Resource Management, focused on budget management and procurement, and the Customer Service Division. Some of the projects his department is currently working on:
• Hwy 105A roadway widening from Woodmoor Drive to Lake Woodmoor Drive.
• Hwy 105B widening improvements, Lake Woodmoor Drive to Martingale Road.
• Beacon Lite Road Improvements, south phase (Wakonda Way to Bricker Road).
• Woodmoor Drive and Lake Woodmoor Drive intersection improvements.
• Baptist Road/Hodgen Road and Roller Coaster Road intersection improvements.
To report road damage or other county-related issues such as mowing needed, drainage maintenance, trash removal, or dead animal removal, go to www.citizenconnect.elpasoco.com and create a service request.
**********
NEPCO usually meets bi-monthly at The Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Drive, Monument. The next general membership meeting will be on Nov. 15, 10 a.m. to noon. After the board election, the guest speakers scheduled are County Commissioners Holly Williams (District 1) and Bill Wysong (District 3). For more information about HOA membership in NEPCO, email membership@nepco.org or go to www.nepco.org.
Marlene Brown can be contacted at marlenebrown@ocn.me.
The Woodmoor Improvement Association (WIA) board met on Sept. 24 to hear residents’ concerns about prairie dogs and to discuss preparing for upcoming winter conditions. Prairie dogs
Two residents came to discuss the prairie dog situation on the south side of the Preserve. They noted that they had paid to be part of the most recent prairie dog mitigation, but it did not appear any work happened in their area.
President Brian Bush said the board had spent $5,000 in late July on the second round of prairie dog mitigation but that getting to zero would be difficult given the ongoing construction. WIA would need to wait until next year if it becomes a significant problem rather than a small number, he said.
Commons Area Direct Steve Cutler said he was under the impression that the residents’ area was to be covered in the last round of mitigation but was told it had not been.
Bush said WIA would investigate, and if they had paid and their area hadn’t been treated, that was one issue, but it might have to wait until next year for another large effort.
Preparing for winter
Community Outreach Director Rick DePaiva noted that Jack Hadley, executive director of Public Works for El Paso County, had shared a snowplow tracking dashboard at the Sept. 13 Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Organizations (NEPCO) meeting. See the dashboard at http://publicworks.elpasoco.com/snow-removal.
Public Safety Director Brad Gleason noted that there would probably be snowfall before the next WIA meeting in October. He reminded residents that all roads in Woodmoor are the responsibility of El Paso County Public Works rather than WIA or Woodmoor Public Safety (WPS).
Forestry Director Jason Hann advised that now is a good time for residents to walk their properties and clear scrub and slash, because the area will start to see heavy snows that may break branches.
Highlights
• Secretary/Community Outreach. DePaiva said that NEPCO thanked WIA for use of The Barn for its meetings and hosted Executive Director of Planning Meggan Heringgton as well as Hadley. Heringgton and Hadley presented their respective areas; the presentation is available on the NEPCO website.
funds—led the Parks Department to the decision, Matrs said. Marlene Brown can be reached at marlenebrown@ocn.me.
spic and span?
Read, download, search, and listen to OCN content at our mobile-friendly
Contact WIA for login information to see the presentation.
• Treasurer: Bush, speaking for Treasurer Pete Giusti, said income was better than expected, and expenses are at 65%. He noted that Homeowners Association (HOA) administrator Denise Cagliaro was working on next year’s budget with WPS Chief Kevin Nielsen. The budget will be presented in October and adopted at the November meeting.
• HOA: Cagliaro said the previously approved signs saying Woodmoor is patrolled 24/7 were installed.
• Covenants: Director Jennifer Davis reported 147 covenant items in August and three unfounded complaints. She noted 16 HOA checks and one hearing in August about an open fire. Davis reported on the follow-up with the residents’ reporting issues with a short-term rental (STR); owners have applied for a permit and discussed the issue of juris-
Our Community News welcomes letters to the editor on topics of general interest to readers in the Tri-Lakes area. Guidelines for letters are on page 23. The information and opinions expressed in Letters to Our Community are the responsibility of the letter writers and should not be interpreted as the views of OCN even if the letter writer is an OCN volunteer. When there is more than one letter, the letters are arranged in alphabetical order based on the last name of the author.
Todd Brown for Ginger Schaaf
My name is Todd Brown, and I am a current D38 board member. While I can speak only for myself and not the board in any way, I will say that I feel my time on the board has been incredibly productive and rewarding, in large part because of the strong partnership and value alignment between the board, the D38 administrative team, and the community.
I am writing to express my support for Ginger Schaaf in the upcoming election for District 3 of the Board of Education. I first met Ginger when their family joined the same Scout troop as my boys, and I quickly saw how eager they all were to get involved. Since moving here, Ginger and her family have consistently shown a genuine commitment to our community. They chose D38 as the place to raise their children with intention and love for what makes this district so special, and now they are choosing to deepen that commitment with Ginger serving on the School Board.
From my conversations with Ginger and from observing her character, I believe she will be an excellent addition to our team. Ginger shares the values that guide the current Board and administration, and I am confident she will work collaboratively to keep our positive momentum. Internal conflict would only distract from progress, and I know Ginger will be the kind of leader who focuses on what truly matters—with no other agenda—doing what’s best for our kids, ensuring a safe and supportive atmosphere that provides for the best possible outcomes for them, and being wise stewards of our taxpayer resources.
For all these reasons, I wholeheartedly support Ginger Schaaf for the D38 School Board seat, and I encourage you to do the same. Todd Brown
Bullying in our community
D38 School Board Priority 1 is to ensure safe and healthy schools where students feel secure and supported in their learning and growth. Safety is a top priority for both parents and the district. The board policy on bullying prevention and education can be found at: https://tinyurl.com/ d38-policy-JICDE. It defines bullying as a form of intimidation that includes spreading false information.
Bullying is not just physical; it can be verbal, in person, or online. There is an increase in cyberbullying on social media. It’s not just kids who are dealing with this but adults as well. We need to remember, kids see how we behave and what we tolerate. What are we teaching as a community?
I have experienced bullying as a kid and still see it as an adult. To make sure my son knew how to stand up to bullying, I enrolled him in martial arts at the age of 3. He built confidence, self-defense skills, respect, and discipline. Once he was old enough to have online access, I leveraged school and community resources to teach him about being cautious about sharing personal information online and to use critical thinking about how to spot falsehoods, conspiracy theories, and cyberbullying.
We set and periodically review our security settings on social media to a level of privacy that is right for our family. As an IT professional, I recommend good cybersecurity practices. Whenever I see bullying, I choose to stand up, not stand by. I speak out at board meetings, online, and in person. I stand between bullies and their victims. As a School Board or community member, I will always stand up. I hope that more community members will join me.
Here are some good resources for kids and
diction. Bush said WIA will continue to regulate STRs for any nuisance complaints and could rescind the permit.
• Public Safety: Gleason noted that there is still fire danger as things grow and dry out, asking residents to be mindful. Nielsen confirmed that WPS adjusts its patrol in response to reports of issues in other communities.
• Architectural Control: Director Ed Miller reported 38 project submissions, including 31 approved administratively and six by the Architectural Control Committee. Year-todate there have been 323 projects, which is a 24.9% decrease from last year. Projects have been approved at a 98.8% rate.
• Forestry: Hann said WIA completed nine forestry and Firewise visits. He noted that WIA is working with a new state forester and must train them in how to process packets. The mitigation grant is ready for state inspection, but a review of current conditions must be
Jackie Burhans is great for D38! As the D38 School Board election draws near, I would like to share with the community why I support Jackie Burhans as the obvious choice to represent our wonderful school district. I met Jackie almost 20 years ago at a forum to educate the community about the challenges Colorado school districts face. Her comprehensive understanding of the complex funding formula and the many challenges facing Colorado schools was and is unmatched. Since that time, I have seen Jackie in action in our local school district. Not only was she an active parent in her child’s schools, serving on schoolbased oversight committees and helping whenever necessary, she also took her knowledge to the district level, serving on many committees and as a key communicator in our community. Her longterm commitment to education and grasp of the important issues at the school and district level are exceptional. I had the opportunity to serve on some of these committees with Jackie and was always impressed by her professionalism, even-handed approach, and thoughtful consideration of issues and potential solutions. Her support for students, teachers, and staff was undeniable. Later I had the opportunity to hire Jackie at Tri-Lakes Cares and saw that same professionalism and passion carrying through to her work with our community.
Public education is a foundational cornerstone of our American exceptionalism. We are all better when we have an educated public. Jackie recognizes the importance of a great school district to benefit our students, impact the value of our homes, and attract and retain vibrant community members and businesses. I challenge other candidates to demonstrate the same long-term, passionate volunteer commitment to our schools and community. Vote for Jackie! She will represent D38 with knowledge, thoughtfulness, and integrity.
Julie Keim
Kettner’s reply to Sellers
Regarding Ms. Sellers’ response to my letter, she states, ”Modern wild horses fill that old ecological niche,” but neglects to point out that the horses that roamed North America 10,000 years ago competed with other large herbivores and had to avoid large predators.
“In addition to horses, the Miocene mammal faunas of North America were dominated by rhinos, such as Teleoceras, a large variety of camels, extinct relatives of elephants called gomphotheres, ‘bone-crushing’ borophagine dogs, and cat-like saber-toothed predators known as nimravids.”
—American Museum of Natural History. Miocene Mammals
Modern mountain lions will prey on horses where their habitats overlap, but horse populations have so far not been controlled sufficiently by natural predation.
“...wild horse population growing 18 percent annually, any forage on additional acreage would be quickly consumed.”—PERC. You Can’t Drag Them Away
Another statement in the rebuttal is that a single horse eats about 5.5 tons of forage per year. I can agree with this number, but the idea that this amount of forage, not to mention the 5-15 gallons of water per day, can be consumed by horses (70,000-plus horses on Bureau of Land Management lands alone—i.e., public land owned by all of us) without impacting native animal (elk, deer, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, etc.) populations seems implausible, at best.
I do not purport to be a wildlife expert, but the experts have been discussing this topic for decades, and the consensus is that there are too many horses on our public land and their pop-
completed before an application can be approved. Processing has been delayed by statewide fires, which have required all hands on deck.
• Common Areas: Cutler said the Common Areas tree maintenance was complete on the third week of August and the second mowing would occur the second week of October. Davis noted that there had been spillage from the Well 12R site in the South Preserve, and Bush said that Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District had a restoration plan.
**********
The WIA Board of Directors usually meets at 7 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month in The Barn at 1691 Woodmoor Drive, Monument. The next meeting will be on Oct. 22. See www. woodmoor.org to confirm meeting details. Jackie Burhans can be reached at jackieburhans@ocn.me.
ulations and range must be controlled (i.e., reduced), not expanded, if we want to have healthy populations of highly desirable native animals.
”One theme that was repeated over and over again was the sense of urgency and responsibility ... If the current management policies continue, the impacts to fragile western rangelands, wild horses and burros, wildlife and their habitats, and humans will intensify, resulting in irreversible consequences.”—Terry Messmer, TWS member and director of the Berryman Institute at Utah State University The Wildlife Society
Nathan Kettner
A dedicated advocate for D38 Board of education
I am proud to endorse Jackie Burhans for the D38 Board of Education. Her unparalleled involvement in public education spans decades at every level, showcasing her unwavering commitment. Jackie stands out due to her extensive volunteer work and her dedication to communicating with the community about D38 issues, values, and solutions. Her ability to integrate her corporate experience with her reporting duties at OCN while maintaining a passion for public education is exceptional. I strongly urge you to consider Jackie Burhans for the D38 Board of Education on Nov. 4 as an informed, engaged, exceedingly qualified, and competent candidate.
Laura Kronick
endorsement for Ginger Schaaf— D38 School Board
As vice president of the Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Board of Education, I am proud to endorse Ginger Schaaf for the D38 School Board. While I haven’t worked directly alongside her, I’ve had meaningful conversations with Ginger and know the people who have encouraged her to step forward and run. Their respect for her character, combined with what I’ve seen in her passion and priorities, give me full assurance that she is the right person to serve our district. Ginger’s first priority is always our kids, and she is running to make sure students come first in every decision the board makes. She brings both emotional intelligence and strong problem-solving skills, which allow her to listen, collaborate, and guide discussions in a constructive way. Her background in management gives her a thoughtful, analytical approach, while her work ethic and motivation drive her to constantly look for ways to improve. She is inspirational, steady, and committed, and I know she will continue to serve our students and community with integrity. I fully support Ginger Schaaf for the D38 School Board and encourage our community to join me in casting a vote for her. This endorsement is a personal opinion and does not reflect the opinion of the board or D38.
Kris Norris
endorsing Jackie Burhans
As a 20-plus year educator and longtime District 38 community member, I am confident in endorsing Jackie Burhans for the D38 Board of Education.
Jackie brings unparalleled preparation for this role. For more than a decade, she has closely followed board activity, attending meetings across the tenure of four superintendents and reporting faithfully on the district’s challenges and progress. She has also served on numerous committees and participated at the state level, gaining a firm understanding of education policy, budgeting, and governance. Jackie has thus developed a tremendous grasp on the history and trajectory of our local educational system. She has developed deep depth and robust breadth of insight into how our district operates.
I have known Jackie since 2017. We met at a D38 Deliberates event, bringing community members from all aspects of our area together to collectively advise the Board of Education. Jackie immediately struck me as an active listener and thoughtful contributor, with practical ideas that took the concerns of others into account.
During my later tenure on the Board of Edu-
October 4, 2025
cation, she often commented publicly on the positive aspects of what she observed and offered her perspective regarding pathways for improvement. During those comments, and in all my personal interactions with her, she has remained respectful, willing to engage, and added important perspectives that, again, carefully considered the needs of all students.
Most recently, I continued to interact with Jackie as she participated on the Arts Education Task Force. She was instrumental in advancing that task force into a standing committee. She demonstrated her continued commitment to supporting the district while celebrating students’ many achievements.
D38 benefits with dedicated and knowledgeable board members. Jackie is a collaborative leader with the policy acumen needed to be exceptionally effective!
Theresa Phillips
D38 Board of Education, 2018-23
Letter of endorsement for Jackie Burhans
As a former member of the Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Board, I had the privilege of seeing firsthand the kind of leadership, integrity, and
By the staff at Covered Treasures
commitment it takes to serve our students, teachers, families, and community well. It is from that experience that I am proud to endorse Jackie Burhans for our School Board.
Jackie brings exactly what our schools need right now: a clear vision for student success, a steady hand for decision-making, and a genuine dedication to listening to parents, teachers, and students. She understands that strong schools are the foundation of a strong community.
I’ve watched Jackie engage with complex issues thoughtfully, ask the right questions, and keep the focus on what matters most: helping every student thrive. She also brings the kind of collaborative spirit that makes a school board effective: willing to lead when needed, but also eager to listen and build consensus.
Serving on a school board is not easy work. It requires long hours, tough decisions, and a commitment to doing the right thing even when it isn’t the easy thing. I am confident Jackie will serve with integrity and courage.
For these reasons, I wholeheartedly support Jackie Burhans for the Lewis-Palmer School Board and encourage you to join me in casting your vote for her.
Robb Pike LPHS Class of ‘93 and member of the board from 2008 to 2015
vote for Jackie
I have run the District 38 Chess Tournament for the last 18 years. After each tournament, we have taken the winners to a school board meeting so that they could be recognized for their achievements by the members of the school board. At those meetings, I have learned that the most effective school board members are those who have extensive and lengthy ties to our community and our schools and are not there simply because they need something to do.
Jackie Burhans has been in our community for two decades. She has been at every school board meeting that I have ever attended. That includes meetings with the Monument Academy school board. She understands what is going on with our schools and will not have to learn on the job. Jackie is intelligent and compassionate and will do what is best for our children. She should be elected to the school board.
Steve Waldmann
Reading is still fundamental
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”—The Cat in the Hat, by Dr. Seuss
Theodore Geisel wrote it in a way we all remember, condensing the 12 or more positive reasons why we should all read into an easily chanted rhyme: Reading improves vocabulary and language skills; reading enhances critical thinking and comprehension; reading increases imagination and creativity; reading supports academic success.
Here are a few books for the young readers in your life.
Science Factopia (8-12)
By Rose Davidson (Britannica Books) $14.99
The sixth book in the bestselling Factopia series, this is an enthralling and hilarious journey through the worlds of space, animals, engineering, numbers, machines, and more in 400 connected facts! Did you know the average human has about 10,000 taste buds?
Old taste buds are replaced with new buds about every two weeks.
(Be Smart About) Screen Time (6-10)
By Rachel Brian (Hachette Book Group) $15.99
This comic-style book is a fun, accessible, kidfriendly guide to safe, healthy, and productive screen time. It offers ways to start conversations and set boundaries around social media use and
would be a good gift for a child getting their first phone.
Because of Winn-Dixie (8-12)
By Kate DiCamillo (Candlewick Press) $8.99
Making friends in a new town is never easy. This story of a preacher’s daughter named Opal, whose life is transformed by a scruffy dog named WinnDixie, is timeless, and is a Newberry Honor Book.
A Wolf Called Wander (8-12)
By Rosanne Parry (Greenwillow Books) $9.99
This book is based on the true story of a wolf named OR-7, often called “Journey.” He’s a wild wolf that traveled 1,000 miles across the Pacific Northwest, through dense forests, barren wilderness, and across flowing water. The trip is dangerous and full of peril. Will he survive—and will he find a place to call home?
The Secret Explorers Series (7+)
By SJ King (Natgeo Under the Stars) $6.99
This series of 13 adventure books features a diverse team of young experts who embark on exciting missions around the world. These books cleverly blend thrilling narratives with fascinating facts, sparking children’s curiosity about science, history, and the natural world as the team visits such places all over the world, space, and under the ocean. The series combines fast-paced storytelling with educational content, helpful diagrams, quizzes, and glossaries, making these books ideal for both classroom use and home reading.
Where the Mountain Meets the Moon (812)
By Grace Lin (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers) $12.99
In this Newbery Honor book, a fantasy with elements of The Wizard of Oz and Chinese folklore, a young girl named Minli embarks on an epic journey to find the mythical Old Man of the Moon.
October Library events
World War II Close Up; They Saved the Stallions (8+)
By Deborah Hopkinson (Scholastic) $9.99
This is the thrilling true story of the desperate fight to save the world-famous Spanish Riding School in Vienna and its beloved Lipizzaner horses. In the closing months of World War II, American bombs rained down on Nazi Germany and its territories, including Austria. This book brings to life the exhilarating story of Operation Cowboy and the miraculous survival of the Spanish Riding School.
I Am Rebel (9-12)
By Ross Montgomery (Candlewick Press) $13.99
Rebel is a good dog. He loves his life on the farm with his owner, Tom, until one day, when the war comes too close. Tom is determined to join the rebellion to defeat the king’s men, but Rebel knows that war is dangerous, and he will stop at nothing to save his beloved human. How can he bring Tom home before it’s too late? A heartwarming adventure told from a dog’s perspective as he travels across a pseudo-Civil War Britain.
Money Skills for Teens; Everything a Teenager Should Know about Personal Finance (13-18)
By Ferne Bowe (Bemberton Ltd.)
This book is an indispensable guide to mastering personal finance. It demystifies the world of money with clear, practical advice and real-life examples that resonate with young readers. It covers budgeting, saving for emergencies, investing, using credit responsibly, avoiding debt, and building a solid financial foundation
Until next month, happy reading!
The staff at Covered Treasures can be reached at books@ocn.me.
Book clubs, escape room, scrap exchange
By Harriet Halbig
Several special programs will come to the library during October. These include a time-travelthemed escape room for teens, a nature wand program for tweens, and a scrap exchange sponsored by Who Gives a SCRAP
The Chronoshift Reality Rewritten escape room for teens ages 13 to 18 will be from 4 to 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 10. A simple joke gone wrong—an AI-generated post meant for laughs—spirals into a real-life disaster, derailing your friend’s hopes to be elected to the Student Council. Your mission? Travel back in time, change the flow of information, and fix the mistake. Can you undo the damage and repair your friendship? You’ll need to track down the AI-generated materials before they cause mayhem for your friends! It’s created by Loki’s Loop, a project of the University of Washington Center for an Informed Public. Registration is required at 719-488-2370.
The Third Friday Friends of Pikes Peak Library District Book Club will meet from 10:30 to 12:30 on Friday, Oct. 17. This book club is sponsored by the Tri-Lakes Friends of the Library. The October selection is Fuzz, by Mary Roach, an All Pikes Peak Reads title for 2025. All are welcome to attend.
Also on Oct. 17, from 4:30 to 5:30, there will be a Nature Wands program for tweens ages 9 to 12. Turn nature into art by designing a handcrafted nature wand. Young artists will weave, wrap, and create their project using a variety of natural and man-made materials.
In collaboration with Who Gives a SCRAP Creative Reuse Center, the library will host a Scrap Exchange from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18 Bring in your new, clean/gently used and unwanted craft materials and exchange them for “tickets” to purchase/exchange them for new-toyou craft supplies. The library will also have a fun up-cycling craft going on, so you can take your time and check for new inventory. Please refrain from bringing items that can be recycled (plastic food containers), bedding, and building waste. No registration is required.
Come to the library on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 11 to 12:30 for Make a Wish, Make a Plan: Goal Setting by the Moon. This is not just another goalsetting class. In this beginner-friendly astrology workshop, you will learn how to work with the lunar cycle using your birth chart. Discover the difference between new moons and full moons, how to set clear intentions during each phase, and how the moon’s sign and house in your chart influence your personal goals. Perfect for beginners and astro-curious folks looking to add a little magic and structure to their self-growth routines.
This event is offered as part of the All Pikes Peak Reads program Regularly occurring programs continue through October. These include:
• Toddler Time on Wednesdays from 9:30 to 10 and 10:30 to 11 for toddlers ages 1-2 and their parents or caregivers.
• Storytime on Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11 for children ages 3 to 7 and their parents or caregivers.
• German Conversation Group on Mondays from 1:30 to 3:30 for intermediate and advanced German speakers.
• Socrates Café on Tuesdays from 1 to 3. This is an adult discussion group which addresses many subjects. All are welcome.
• Paws to Read on Tuesdays from 4 to 5 offers the chance to increase fluency by reading aloud to a volunteer Paws to Read Therapy dog. This program is designed for readers ages 3 to 12.
Harriet Halbig may be reached at harriethalbig@ocn.me.
By Marlene Brown
Palmer Lake Historical Society (PLHS) held its regular membership meeting at
the Palmer Lake Town Hall. Diane Kokes, vice president of PLHS, introduced Leah Davis Witherow, executive director of the Pioneers Museum
in Colorado Springs. Witherow presented What’s New and Old at the Pioneers Museum
Many people who have lived in El Paso County don’t realize that the Pioneers Museum was the first County Courthouse, built in 1903, and is now the city’s most important artifact. The building served as the County Courthouse from 190373. It has been home to the museum since 1979. Recently, the building was closed for a year for major renovations, including HVAC systems, plaster repair, and new lighting, and reopened July 13, 2024.
Many new exhibits are available for viewing. Included is 50% of the Story: Women Expressing Creativity. Women have always been artists, and their work has gone mostly unrecognized. Using historic artwork and artifacts, this exhibit creates important conversation across time.
Another exhibit, Until Forever Comes: This is Ute Homeland has been five years in the making.
With consultation and conversation with Tribal members of the Southern Ute, the Ute Mountain Ute, and the Utes of the Uintah and Ouray Reservations, this exhibit is permanent and highlights the ongoing history and culture of the Ute People in the Pikes Peak Region.
The Pioneers Museum is located at 215 S. Tejon St., Colorado Springs. It’s open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; admission is free. 719-385-5990 to schedule a tour.
**********
PLHS meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of the month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 pm) at the Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent St. Free and open to the public. For more info regarding memberships and future programs, go to palmerdividehistory.org/events. Marlene Brown can be reached at marlenebrown@ocn.me.
On
the Trail
(in memory of
Tim
watkins)
Annual Ride for Tim, Palmer Lake to Monument
By Steve Pate
We reported in the September OCN that the annual Ride for Tim was scheduled for Sept. 13. A group of friends and family of Tim Watkins, who was shot and killed while on a mountain bike ride near Mount Herman on Sept. 14, 2017, met at the Tim Watkins Memorial in Palmer Lake.
After an introduction by Vickey Meeker, who organized the memorial, some of the group rode the Santa Fe Trail to Monument. Despite the torrential rain and hail just before the ride, the Santa Fe Trail was in good shape. Those who attended the social gathering at 300 Days of Shine in Monument shared memories of Watkins, a well-known and well-liked member of the Tri-Lakes mountain biking community.
Travis Morris, catering manager at La Casa Fiesta, used to ride with Tim Watkins and provided chips and salsa for the gathering. The Palmer Lake Fire Department lit the star on Sundance Mountain in Tim’s memory.
Watkins owned a bike shop in the same building as 300 Days of Shine called Balanced Rock Bike Shop (also the name of a biking and hiking trail near Palmer Lake).
Again this year, Jennifer Bucholtz, civilian criminal investigator with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, attended the gathering and was open to listening to ideas that would help her investigation. Bucholtz was accompanied by Detective Jennifer Arndt, also with the EPCSO. If anyone has additional information or ideas that might help find Watkins’s killer, please contact Bucholtz at 719-520-7227, or email jenniferbucholtz@elpasoco.com.
Steve Pate can be contacted at stevepate@ocn.me
By Janet Sellers
With all the rain this summer, we had an abundance of toadstools—toxic fungi—popping up throughout our gardens, green spaces, and grasses. I wondered what to do about it besides bagging them up with gloved hands and pitching them in the trash. They often popped up in just hours.
One remedy I found is scattering cornmeal. Cornmeal supports beneficial fungi that outcompete the toadstools but don’t harm the garden and the desired plants. It also helps the garden fight root rot and powdery mildew, and is a mild, slowrelease food source for beneficial microbes and beneficial fungi. (A tablespoon of baking soda in a gallon of water helps cure powdery mildew in soil and on the leaves, too.)
Cornmeal, as reported on the Martha Stewart website, also attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and ground beetles that feed on aphids, mites, and other pests, according to garden expert Megan Edge. Cornmeal helps minimize or delete harmful fungi and develop healthy compost and soil.
Four benefits that cornmeal offers that were noted were as a natural fungicide, a mild fertil-
izer, a gentle deterrent against common garden pests, and elimination of compost odors. Caveat: Creating healthy soil, good drainage, and cultural practice is the ideal. Many informal reports say to use only a light sprinkle of cornmeal for best results.
Sweet potato greens
Making a simple garlic stir-fry is a quick and popular way to prepare sweet potato leaves, but they can also be used in soups and stews. The leaves have a neutral flavor similar to spinach.
Sweet potatoes can be grown indoors over the winter in pots. The leaves are tasty, often cooked like spinach or eaten raw in salads. We can grow sweet potatoes outside, eat the leaves all season, then harvest the tubers at the end of the season. Sweet potatoes are a tropical plant, so warm indoor growing will give us good leaves and possibly some tubers, but outdoor growing offers the most tubers per plant and the best size.
One sweet potato can offer 50 to 100 slips, and up to 100 pounds of sweet potatoes from that one tuber and all its slips when grown outdoors. They make a very pretty indoor or outdoor vine, and the flowers resemble morning glories. They’re in the same family.
Janet Sellers is an avid “lazy gardener” researching permaculture for high altitude forest and landscape living, and how these shape our lives. Contact her at JanetSellers@ocn.me.
Above: The Palmer Lake Star was lit in memory of Tim Watkins. Photo courtesy of Arielle Watkins-West.
Above: Sweet potato slips, or starts, can be grown from organic tubers and rooted in a jar of water or a container of potting soil in a warm, sunny window. Planted in outdoor soil, they will grow to a vine filled with edible green leaves and eventually new tubers. Photo by Janet Sellers.
Above: Gathering at 300 Days of Shine. Inset: Tim Watkins Memorial in Palmer Lake. Photos by Steve Pate.
Above: Riders preparing to ride the Santa Fe Trail. Photo courtesy of Vickey Meeker.
Above: Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, the former El Paso County Courthouse. Source: Wikipedia under Creative Commons license. Taken October 20, 2011 by JAKeeran.
Matters
Art
October is Arts Month: Artober with Monumental Impact
By Janet Sellers
Our summer Art Hop ended in September, but art events and activities have just begun for the fall season. October is recognized as National Arts and Humanities Month (NAHM) in the United States. It’s a national celebration to promote equitable access to the arts, increase participation, and highlight the positive impact on individuals and communities.
For some new, creative, imaginative experiences, I went to visit the new location of Monumental Impact for Technology, Engineering and Entrepreneurship (MITEE), a studio workplace for learning. It’s our local makerspace for all ages and all levels of making. The upand-coming trend of makerspaces is an idea where a person can go to learn and use equipment they don’t already have or know how to use. One can make products or develop skills and go beyond what they already know into new developments or just new kinds of projects. Participants at MITEE design with 3D printers, metal forging, robotics and
more. Volunteering for students and adults includes a wide variety of opportunities, too.
Executive Director Jeanette Breton showed me the wide variety of equipment, tools, and technology that they have and teach for people to be able to make things for themselves, gifts, or become an entrepreneur. From cosplay costumes to toys to engraving names and memories for glass sets to promotional items, there are many ways to learn and use the wide variety of tools there. I saw finished projects of all sizes: engraved drinking glasses, laser wood engraving, refined 3D printing for toys, chess sets, cosplay helmets, and tools. People of all ages go to the makerspace and are learning to make things using technology and hand-building. I was surprised to see that copper and other metals can be used in the 3D printer, and there is a laser device that will incise designs and patterns into wood.
Besides current tech introductions and learning workshops at our local Silver Key at Tri-Lakes Activity Center and throughout our Pikes
and the various activities are open for making things.
Janet Sellers.
Peak Library District, Monumental Impact offers memberships and tutoring for new workspaces.
Janet Sellers is an artist, writer, and
Snapshots of Our Community
Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) held its second blood drive on Aug. 25 at the Woodmoor Barn. In partnership with Vitalant, TLWC welcomed 38 donors who came forward to provide much-needed blood, aiding patients in overcoming medical challenges and receiving critical care. Vitalant estimated that this drive’s contributions can potentially save 114 lives. Summer is an especially critical time for blood donations as the incidence of traumatic injuries rises and the number of donors decreases. Additionally, large-scale emergencies and trauma events such as floods, tornadoes, and wildfires create further demand for life-saving blood. In the photo from left are Koko Pavich and Robbie Larson donating blood. Photo by Steve Pate.
Above: The Tri-Lakes Lions Club monthly meeting on Sept. 3 featured a talk by John Howe and Michael Weinfeld, the co-authors of the book Shootouts, Killings, and War Heroes: The History Hidden in Monument Cemetery. About a dozen Lions Club members filled the back room at Calvert’s Mini-Market in Palmer Lake to hear the co-authors tell stories about the people buried in the cemetery and other facts about the graveyard. Howe spent 14 years and Weinfeld seven researching and updating the cemetery files located in Monument Town Hall. Photo by Gordon Reichal.
speaker, offering talks, workshops, and art in public places for museums, communities, institutional talks, and exhibitions. Contact Janet at JanetSellers@OCN.me.
Monu-Palooza, Aug. 31
Club book presentation Gleneagle Spirit 5K, Sept. 6
Above: On a sunny afternoon on Aug. 31, the ninth annual Monu-Palooza Music Festival was held in Monument’s Limbach Park. The day-long festival band lineup included Emily Hall, Cirkus, Sandy Wells, Mojo Filter, Matt Bloom Band, Ashtōnz, and WireWood Station. Organizer and Ashtōnz band member Charlie Searle said it was “actually the 11th annual pre-Labor Day music event. The first two events were fundraisers, then we changed it to Monu-Palooza in year three.” Searle said over 200 tickets were pre-sold, and numerous walkups were entering throughout the day. Searle said, “What makes this great is you can spend all day or just come for your favorite band.” Searle said he appreciated the bands, vendor support, Mark Daniels for sound engineering, and volunteers C.J. Luna, Morgan Hildebrand, and his granddaughters Rowan and Salem for helping with the event. Matt Bloom from Palmer Lake said, “Charlie does a great job promoting the concert, and it’s been a terrific time each year we have performed here.” Photo by David Futey.
Above: Lewis-Palmer High School Theatre staged its fall production of Clue, On Stage! on Sept. 4-6. The production took the classic board game and movie and brought it to life on stage. Favorite characters like Miss Scarlet, Professor Plum, and Colonel Mustard were caught up in a hilarious whodunit full of twists and surprises. These talented students demonstrated how arts education builds creativity, confidence, collaboration, and a growth mindset—while boosting academic and emotional development. Our local schools have performances of music, theater, and sports that are open to the whole community at a reasonable price. Residents are encouraged to join the fun and bring the whole family. Stay up to date with D38 fine arts events at https://tinyurl.com/d3-fine-arts. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Left: On Sept. 6, the Gleneagle Spirit 5K Run/Walk returned after an 18-year hiatus. Mark Rudolph with ERA Shields Realty said, “I originally organized this race in 2005 and ran it by myself for three years, but it became too much for me. Then last year, I had six people show up at my front door, and they asked me to organize it again and would help.” Rudolph said, “We are looking for this to be a multi-year event and a legacy I want to leave with the community.” Blair Dinkins with EXP Realty co-organized it with Rudolph. The race events were a 5K walk, a children’s 1-mile race, and then the 5K runners’ race. The ages of the 183 total walkers and runners spanned from single digits to 85-year-old Jack Kiplinger. Volunteer team lead Bonnie Burckel said, “Scouting America Troop 194 helped with the course setup and were on the racecourse to guide the runners and walkers, and a number of Gleneagle residents helped with registration.” The top overall 5K male finisher was William Edwards (20:15.7) of Colorado Springs. The top overall 5K female finisher was Adaleigh Ross (24:12.9) of Colorado Springs. Photo by David Futey. TLWC blood drive, Aug. 25
Above: Monumental Impact is a creative maker studio. Here, Executive Director Jeanette Breton shows some of the fun projects community members have made so far this season, such as 3D printer creations, wood, metal, and glass engraving, robotics, and other innovative creations. The holiday season is approaching, and the makerspace
Photo by
Above:
Above: Members of American Legion Post 9-11 and the Monument Police and Fire Departments, town officials, and citizens attended a remembrance of the 9/11 attacks at the Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Station. Among those attending from American Legion Post 9-11 were Commander Mike Christensen, Randy Fritz, Prayer Pastor Jim Bergeron, Mike Pietsch, Bill Miller, Ray Kinder, Chip Scharff, Yve Denison, Michael Keough, Anthony Trifuletti, Mark Tinkler, and Jim Wolf. The Fire Department members included Chief Andy Kovacs, Division Fire Chief
Rotary sponsors paddleboard race
Above: The Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club held its inaugural “Palmer Paddle” paddleboard race Sept. 7 at Palmer Lake to raise funds for community service projects. The 1.5-mile race featured youth and adult heats, with prizes and food trucks on site. Rock House Ice Cream donated 20% of race-day sales to support the club’s Warm Hugs initiative, which provides new winter coats to Tri-Lakes Cares clients. Sponsors included MVEA, TheMortgageLady, Cutting Edge Realty, Local Landing, and Conexon Connect. Proceeds support Rotary programs such as free after-school math tutoring, scholarships, and coat giveaways. Rotary International has more than 1 million members in 45,000 clubs worldwide. Its mission includes promoting peace, fighting disease, supporting education, and protecting the environment. Learn more at www.tlrotary.com or facebook.com/ TriLakesRotaryClub. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Above: The book signing on Sept. 20 at Covered Treasures Bookstore featured Lisa Hatfield, author of To Ride a Storm Surge, a novel about a family riding out Hurricane Katrina in 2005. A family consisting of a young girl, her mother, and her grandmother fights to survive the worst hurricane in recent history. The third book in a series of Ready to Go? books, Hatfield strives to help families be prepared for any disaster. Hatfield brings the struggles of Hurricane Katrina to life. Pictured in photo are, from left, Lisa Hatfield, Caryl and Gordon Saunders, and Amy Curry. Go to lisahatfieldwriter.com for more information about this and the other books in the Ready to Go? series. Caption by Marlene Brown. Photo by Steve Pate.
Right: On Sept. 25, the Monument Police Department and Wesley Owens Coffee partnered up for Coffee with a Cop. This community-focused and law enforcement outreach event is designed to bring community members and local law enforcement officers together in a casual, welcoming environment. The goal is to give residents the opportunity to have meaningful conversations with police officers, ask questions about public safety, and discuss any concerns they might have and fostering mutual understanding. Photos by Erica Burt.
Bumgarner, Division Fire Chief Bradley, Battalion Chief Coyle, Lt. Smith, Lt. Lance, Lt. Ragland, Engineer Rains, Engineer Schmidt, Firefighter Preedy, Firefighter Cox, and Firefighter Parker. Representing the Police Department were Chief Patrick Regan, Commander John Lupton, Commander Timothy Johnson, Lt. Mark Owens, Cpl. Hoeh, Officer Nyman, and Officer Leisberg. Also attending were Mayor Mitch LaKind, Town Manager Madeline VanDenHoek, and Town Council members Laura Kronick and Ken Kimple. Photo by Ray Kinder.
Above: On Sept. 17, Lewis-Palmer School District 38 officially opened its Career and Innovation Center (CIC) with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Students have been learning in the facility since August, exploring welding and metalworking, skilled trades, robotics, engineering, aerospace, and the Transitions program. Phase 2 will add healthcare and computer science. The event marked the first public opportunity for community members, local leaders, state legislators, and partners to tour the building. Speakers included junior Dempsey Carnahan, Director of Communications Amy Matisek, Board of Education President Tiffiney Upchurch, and Superintendent Amber Whetstine. The Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce provided the ribbon and oversized scissors. After the ceremony, guests toured the facility, spoke with students and staff, and joined a scavenger hunt for CIC-branded prizes. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/d38-cic-info. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Above: Bye-bye porta-potties, hello permanent restroom. The long-delayed restroom at Monument Lake was installed Sept. 19. The pre-fab building arrived on a flatbed truck and was lifted by a huge crane that gently lowered it into place. The project was supposed to be finished in June, but several equipment delays postponed completion. The facility has two unisex bathrooms that will be open year-round with heat in the winter. The existing porta-potties will be removed. About 75% of the project cost was picked up by a $117,000 grant from Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
by Michael Weinfeld.
community
Above: Officer Leseberg and Sara Petrie discuss
issues.
Above: (L to R): Officer Reifel, Lieutenant Owens, Commander Johnson, Officer Leseberg, and Officer Regan.
Photo
Above: Sept. 26 was the last Art Hop of the season, but local art events for the fall and holiday season are just beginning in our area for art lovers and artists, and our local art venues are happy to keep a gift registry on hand to make gift-giving and holiday giving easy. Here, owners of Bella Art and Frame Gallery Joseph Jesse and Micaela Cimino are with the artist of the month, Jamie Wilke. Photo by Janet Sellers.
Skate Park mural, Sept. 27
Above: Town of Monument Planning and Public Works staff repainted a damaged community wall Sept. 27 at the Monument Skate Park, 500 Beacon Lite Road. Black Hills Energy sponsored the project. The team painted the wall black and used stencils of pine and aspen trees in fall colors. They applied mural paint and a protective coating to preserve the artwork and ease future cleanup. The original murals were created in October 2020 for Arts Month through a grant from the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region. A local artist added additional murals in 2022. From left are volunteer Ginger Lewis, Parks and Trails Planner Cassie Olgren, Senior Mechanic Rod Enoch, Street Tech Gabriel Martinez, Planner Ray Medina, and Street Tech Shawn Farnham. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Creek Week, Sept. 27
Above: Palmer Lake hosted its annual cleanup Sept. 27 as part of the Fountain Creek Watershed District’s 12th Creek Week, which runs Sept. 25-Oct. 5 across the 92-square-mile watershed from Palmer Lake to Pueblo. At its Sept. 25 meeting, the Board of Trustees read a proclamation recognizing Creek Week. Town staff, Parks and Trails Commission members, and community volunteers removed debris along Monument Creek, previously cut by Rocky Mountain Youth Corps volunteers. Public Works will collect the slash. Volunteers also refreshed paint in Glen Park’s play area. Learn more at fountain-crk.org and rockymountainyouthcorps.org. Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Donala Open House, Sept. 26
Above: The Donala Water and Sanitation District (DWSD), which serves Gleneagle and surrounding areas, held a community open house Sept. 26 in the parking lot of its Holbein Drive offices to share updates and thank customers for their support. Board members, staff, and consultants met with attendees. DWSD provided dinner from Kneaders while highlighting its 2025 projects, including the redrilling of Well 7D in the upper parking lot. Helen Malenda-Lawrence of LRE Water discussed the well’s role in the district’s infrastructure. Superintendent of Water Operations Ronny Wright led tours showing the original well site, the expanded parking lot, redrilled well, and the relocated electrical equipment designed for easier maintenance. The district offices have been closed since May due to drilling. DWSD thanked nearby customers for their patience and expects to reopen the offices soon.
Palmer Lake new trustee reception
Above: Team members from Tri-Lakes Preservation put together a community reception on Sept. 26 at the Town Hall Gazebo on the Village Green ahead of the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting swearing-in ceremony. Attendees welcomed Beth Harris and Roger Moseley with a live flute and piano performance by Joseph Liberti and Steve Draper along with homemade cookies and pastries by Chef Gene Kalesti. Non-alcoholic refreshments were served. Well-wishers included representatives from the Monument Town Council as well as friends and family.
Palmer Lake 0.5K, Sept. 28
Discover great new ways to engage with Our Community!
By John Heiser, Publisher, OCN
At Our Community News (OCN), we are excited to introduce new ways to help you connect better with our vibrant Tri-Lakes community. Interactive website features Our website lets you post questions and comments on articles, columns, and podcasts. Share your thoughts. Join the conversation.
Enjoy two audio options for OCN content: brief AI-generated highlights (1-2 minutes) or full verbatim readings with highlighted paragraphs you can skip to instantly. Explore now at www.ocn.me!
Our two monthly audio podcasts now offer video versions with large
animated subtitles readable on cell phones. One presents highlights from all of the news articles and columns and the other reads the complete articles and columns.
While you can listen to or watch our podcasts on YouTube (www.tinyurl.com/OCNonYouTube), Apple Podcasts (www.tinyurl.com/OCNonApple), or Spotify (www.tinyurl. com/OCNonSpotify), we think you will have the best experience listening or watching on our website at www.ocn.me/podcast.htm where the length of each segment is displayed and you can easily skip to the segments that are of the greatest interest to you.
Above: Nearly 800 people, dogs, and assorted creatures turned out on a beautiful fall day for the annual .5 (Point 5) K “Race” in Palmer Lake Sept. 28. They began near the playground on the east side of the lake, proceeded down the Santa Fe Trail, then crossed the bridge over the railroad tracks to the finish line, with a Shipley Do Nut break about halfway. The event is sponsored by Awake the Lake, and proceeds go toward maintaining outdoor facilities that make Palmer Lake a beautiful place. The Palmer Ridge Pep Band (inset) provided music to encourage participants just before crossing the bridge, and cheerleaders encouraged participants to make it across the finish line. Cash prizes were awarded for best costumes and other criteria, such as those who appeared to be having fun. Photo by Steve Pate.
Check our new our On-Line Calendar
The extensive community calendar that we carry in every issue is now on-line at https://wp.ocn.me/ events. You can search for your favorite events and easily add them to your calendar program. Watch short clips of local events on OCN's YouTube Channel Relive holiday parades, talent show performances, and more on our YouTube channel. Check out our playlists at www.youtube.com/@ OurCommunityNews and subscribe today.
Stay informed with Our Community Newsletter and our new mobile and desktop app
Get breaking news, event alerts, and exclusive updates between our monthly issues. Sign up for our free email newsletter at www.ocn.me/ newslettersignup.htm. Our new mobile and desktop app alerts you to upcoming events you don't want to miss, lists our latest newsletters, articles, podcasts, and photo collections. It updates automatically to keep you informed. Have comments? You can reach me at johnheiser@ocn.me or post a comment at www.ocn.me.
Photo by Jackie Burhans.
Photo by Jackie Burhans.
By Janet Sellers
Although we strive for accuracy in these listings, dates or times are often changed after publication. Please doublecheck the time and place of any event you wish to attend by calling the information number for that event. Please notify us if your event listing needs to be updated.
School Bus Safety
Drivers who pass a stopped school bus with its stop arm extended and flashing lights constitute a dangerous and life-threatening violation of traffic laws. In Colorado, you must (A) stop for a school bus with flashing red lights and an extended stop arm, stopping at least 20 feet away, unless you are on the opposite side of a highway divided by a physical, raised, or depressed median; (B) On a two-lane road or one where painted lines, but no physical barrier, separate lanes, you must still stop; (C) After stopping, you must remain stopped until the bus’s lights stop flashing and it begins to move again. Colorado school buses are increasingly being equipped with automated stop arm cameras to record and catch drivers who illegally pass a stopped school bus. Recent legislation allows for the installation and use of these systems by school districts. Academy School District 20 in Colorado uses school bus cameras, including the stop arm camera system and interior cameras, to enhance student safety and to document drivers who pass a stopped school bus with flashing lights and an extended stop arm.
Bike rider and pedestrian safety
The end of daylight savings time and earlier dusk hours are a historically dangerous period for pedestrians. Pedestrian Safety Month is approaching, and CDOT is launching a campaign to remind Coloradans how they can protect our most vulnerable road users. The agency and its partners aim to promote safer behaviors on Colorado roads by highlighting alarming fatality trends. Pedestrian fatalities in Colorado have increased 88%, but in El Paso County they have increased 167%.
Car seat update
Parents can visit CarSeatsColorado.com to locate a nearby car seat inspection station, register their car seat and learn how to properly install their car seat or booster seat. If you can’t afford a car seat for your child(ren), WeeCycle, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and SafeKids Colorado Springs have programs through which families can get a free or low-cost car seat. Visit their websites for more information.
October zombie hunting permits
Every permit sold helps fund the development of the Heart of Monument Park. Purchase the permits at Monument Town Hall, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., or online at https://tinyurl.com/zombiehuntingpermits.
Be “bear smart”, do your part
Secure trash in a garage, shed or other secure structure. Trash bins should only be outside of the secure structure on trash collection days from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. The majority of homes will already meet this requirement with
By Janet Sellers
Although we strive for accuracy in these listings, dates or times are often changed after publication. Please double-check the time and place of any event you wish to attend by calling the info number for that event. Please contact calendar@ocn.me with changes and additions.
GOVERNMENTAL BODIES
• Academy Water and Sanitation District board meeting, Wed., Oct. 15, 6 pm-9 pm. Usually meets third Wed. Public can join the Skype meeting: Check the website for a link: monthly board meeting is on Skype at this link https://join.skype.com/OfBkDyhucmep, info: Info: Steve Callicott (President) 719-325-9039
• Black Forest Fire/Rescue Protection District board meeting, Wed., Oct. 15, 7 pm-10 pm. Usually meets third Wed. Visit http://www.bffire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes or contact 719-494-4300.
• Donala Water & Sanitation District board meeting Thu., Oct. 16, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm. In 2023, meets third Thu. Check the website for the access code for the electronic meeting. Info: 719-488-3603
• El Paso County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) regular meeting, Tue., Oct. 7, 9 am-10 am; Tue., Oct. 14, 9 am-10 am; Tue., Oct. 21, 9 am-10 am; Tue., Oct. 28, 9 am-10 am. Usually every Tue. View agendas and meetings at www.agendasuite.org/iip/elpaso. Meetings are held at Centennial Hall, 200 S. Cascade Ave., Suite 150, Colo. Springs. Info: 719-520-643. BOCC land use meetings are held the second and fourth Thursdays of the month (as needed) at 1pm Centennial Hall.
• El Paso County Planning Commission meeting Thu., Oct. 2, 9 am-10 am; Thu., Oct. 16, 9 am-12 pm. Normally meets first & third Thu. (as required). Regional Development Center, 2880 International Circle, Colo. Springs. Meetings are live-streamed on the El Paso County News & Information Channel at www.elpasoco.com/newsinformation-channel. Info: 719-520-6300
• El Paso County Regional Loop Water Authority meeting, Thu., Oct. 16, 9 am-12 pm. Normally meets third Thu. Monument Town Hall Boardroom, 645 Beacon Lite Rd. Info: 719-488-3603.
• Lewis-Palmer School District 38 board meeting, Mon., Oct. 20, 6 pm-9 pm. 6 pm. Meets in the school year, third Mon. 66 N Jefferson St, Monument. The Board of Education meeting will be live-streamed on the district’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/ LPSDCommunity, agenda, and supporting documents at https://go.boarddocs.com/co/lewispalmer/Board.nsf/ vpublic. Contact Vicki Wood. Phone: 719.481.9546 Email: vwood@lewispalmer.org Website: www.lewispalmer.org.
• Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Parent and Community Advisory Committee (PCAC), Tue., Oct. 14, 6 pm-8:30 pm. Formerly known as the District Accountability Advisory Committee (DAAC). Meets six times a year at a different school each month. Check D38 website for location or contact tmckee@lewispalmer.org
• Monument Academy School Board meeting, Thu., Oct. 9, 6:30 pm-10:30 pm. Usually meets the second Thu. East Campus gym, 4303 Pinehurst Circle. Info: 719-4318001
• Monument Fire District board meeting, Wed., Oct. 22, 4:30 pm-5:30 pm. In person or via Microsoft Teams. Station 1, 18650 Highway 105. For up-to-date meeting information, visit www.monumentfire.org for updates and the agenda listing the Microsoft Teams joining codes, or contact 719-488-0911.
• Monument Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Oct. 8, 6 pm-9 pm. Usually meets the second Wed. Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. To see the options for remote public participation in each meeting, visit www.townofmonument.org/263/PlanningCommission-Board-of-Adjustment. Info: 719-884-8028.
• Monument Sanitation District board meeting,
Our Community Notices
standard practices. For those who cannot store their trash in a secured structure, they will need to obtain a bear-resistant trash can. Certified bear-resistant waste containers can be provided by your trash collection company, or you can purchase bear resistant devices such as locks, ratchet straps, and more including bear resistant trash cans, that also deter other animals like racoons and dogs. Here is a link from Alaska Dept. of Wildlife video to attach a ratchet strap: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=EmnnwkL7T5Y. Trash can ratchet locks are available for as little as $20.
When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors Lightning can strike even out of a blue sky. Always keep in mind that if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. Seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building or, if a building is not available, a hard-topped vehicle with the windows rolled up. When indoors, refrain from using corded appliances or other equipment or facilities that put you in contact with electrical systems or plumbing. Stay inside until the storms have moved away AND thunder is no longer audible. This is very important, since lightning can and occasionally does strike well away from the thunderstorm itself. Stay alert with weather reports, and curtail your outdoor activities during that time, or ensure that you have constant access to a sturdy, fully enclosed shelter, such as a home or business. Tools for parents and teachers: https://www.weather.gov/safety/ lightning-teachers
School Lunches Program
For the first semester of 2025-26 school year, the Lewis Palmer school district will provide no-cost meals for all elementary students; however, it is still important for households to provide their income information when requested. Gathering this information allows Lewis Palmer School District 38 to receive the state and federal funding for which it qualifies. These funds go directly to schools to help cover the cost of meals and support after school activities and other nutritional programs for students.
El Paso County “Trailability” Program
Terrain Hoppers in the Nature Centers at Fountain Creek and Bear Creek areas are off-road mobility vehicles that allow members of the El Paso County community and visiting guests with disabilities to experience trails previously inaccessible to them. Hike 1-3 miles through foothills and wetlands habitats with your friends, family, and a Nature Center staff or volunteer, May through October. Reservations required, participation is free. https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/trailability/. For more information on the Trailability Program, please contact Theresa Odello at 719.520.6981 or by email at theresaodello@elpasoco. com.
Parents Helping Parents
NAMI Parent and Caregiver Support group is a no-cost, peer support program for parents, caregivers, and other family who provide care and support for youth (ages 19 and younger) who are struggling with mental health issues
Our Community Calendar
Wed., Oct. 15, 9 am-12 pm. Meets third Wed. 130 Second St. Zoom meeting. Find joining instructions on the website. Info: 719-481-4886
• Monument Town Council meeting, Mon., Oct. 6, 6:30 pm-9:30 pm; Mon., Oct. 20, 6:30 pm-9:30 pm. Normally meets first and third Mon. Town Hall Board Room, 645 Beacon Lite Rd., Monument. Info: 719-884-801 for remote attendance links. www.townofmonument.org/260/Boardof-Trustees
• Palmer Lake Board of Adjustments meeting, Tue., Oct. 7, 5 pm-8 pm. Normally meets first Tue., as needed. 28 Valley Crescent St., Palmer Lake.
• Palmer Lake Board of Trustees meeting, Thu., Oct. 9, 6 pm-9 pm; Thu., Oct. 23, 6 pm-9 pm. Usually meets second and fourth Thu. Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Info: 719-481-2953.
• Palmer Lake Sanitation District board meeting Wed., Oct. 8, 9 am-12 pm. Meets second Wed. Call-in only: 650-479-3208, Access Code 76439078, 120 Middle Glenway. Info: 719-481-2732.
• Palmer Lake Town Planning Commission meeting, Wed., Oct. 15, 6 pm-9 pm. Meets third Wed. Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent. Info: 719-481-2953
• Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility Joint Use Committee meeting, Tue., Oct. 14, 10 am-1 pm. Meets second Tue. 16510 Mitchell Ave. Info: See tlwastewater.com/index.html.
• Triview Metropolitan District board meeting, Thu., Oct. 16, 5:30 pm-8:30 pm. Usually meets third Thu. In person or via Zoom. 16055 Old Forest Point, Suite 302, Monument. Visit www.triviewmetro.com for updates and the agenda listing the Zoom joining codes, or contact 719488-6868.
• Village Center Metropolitan District Board Meeting, Tue., Oct. 21, 4 pm-7 pm. Normally meets on the third Tuesday of each month. Serranos Coffee Shop. If the meeting time/location changes, it will be updated on the District’s website: https://wsdistricts.co/village-centermetropolitan-district/
• Woodmoor Improvement Association Board Meeting, Wed., Oct. 22, 7 pm-10 pm. Usually meets fourth Wed. Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Dr. Info: 719-488-2693. www.woodmoor.org
• Woodmoor Water & Sanitation District board meeting, Mon., Oct. 13, 1 pm-2 pm. Normally meets second Mon. 1845 Woodmoor Dr., Monument. Info: 719488-2525. www.woodmoorwater.com.
WEEKLY & MONTHLY EVENTS
• A.A. Big Book Study, Thu., Oct. 2, 7 pm-9 pm; Thu., Oct. 9, 7 pm-9 pm; Thu., Oct. 16, 7 pm-9 pm; Thu., Oct. 23, 7 pm-9 pm; Thu., Oct. 30, 7 pm-9 pm. Every Thu., 7 pm, Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 675 W. Baptist Rd. Call 425-436-6200, access code 575176#
• AARP Black Forest #1100, Wed., Oct. 8, 11:30 am-1 pm. Second Wed., In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. All ages welcome. Info: http://www. aarpchapter1100blackforest.com
• AARP Local Senior Social, Wed., Oct. 22, 1 pm-4 pm. In-person Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Rd. Info: http://www.aarpchapter1100blackforest.com
• Al-Anon for family and friends of alcoholics, Thu., Oct. 2, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Oct. 7, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Oct. 9, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Oct. 14, 7:30 pm9:30 pm; Thu., Oct. 16, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Oct. 21, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Oct. 23, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Oct. 28, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Oct. 30, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm. Every Tue. & Thu., 7:30 pm, Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80908. Al-Anon members are people, just like you, who are worried about someone with a drinking problem. Join us with your questions. Info: bflc@bflchurch.org.
including depression, anxiety, school or peer pressure, substances and more. Facilitated by trained volunteers who have been in your shoes. Meeting is 2nd Monday of each month from 7:00-8:30 pm via zoom. Register online at namicoloradosprings.org. For more information, call the office at (719) 473-8477 or email info@namicos.org. Forest and gardening volunteers needed Friends of Fox Run Park has openings for student volunteers (and grownups, too) most of the year for various tasks. Besides tasks, the group offers information and skills demonstrations for each 2-3 hour session, and celebrates volunteers at the park with annual community events. The Tri Lakes Cares on-site garden in Monument also needs volunteers in Fall, Spring and Summer. Gardening tasks include preparing garden beds, weeding, sowing seeds, and developing the compost. Bring gardening gloves, some tools will be provided on the workdays. Contact Janet Sellers at JanetSellers@ocn.me or Marlene Brown at MarleneBrown@ocn.me for more information.
Tri-Lakes Cares needs your support
Tri-Lakes Cares is the only food pantry and human services organization serving northern El Paso County through emergency relief and self-sufficiency programs. The community-based, volunteer-supported center is a critical resource for our neighbors in need. The best way to help support Tri-Lakes Cares is to donate. Visit https://tri-lakescares.org/donate to learn how to donate money, medical items, personal supplies, or food. Please check the web for current needs in our food pantry at https://tri-lakescares.org/donate/current-needs. Donation drop-off hours are Mon.-Thu., 9 am-4 pm. For more information about Tri-Lakes Cares or how you can help, contact Tri-Lakes Cares at 719-481-4864 or info@tri-lakescares.org.
Black Forest Log School needs your help
Please help preserve the historic school for another 103 years! New exterior damage was discovered. It has exceeded the budget renovation funds. Friends of the Black Forest Log School, a 501c3 corporation, appreciates your donation. Please send a check or bring cash to Black Forest Community Foundation, 6770 Shoup Rd, Black Forest Colorado 90808. www.bflogschool.com
Community volunteers
Many students need volunteer hours for scouting, civics classes, clubs, or would just like to volunteer for the good of it. Friends of Fox Run Park will have some openings for student volunteers (and grownups, too) most of the year for various tasks. Besides tasks, the group offers information and skills demonstrations for each 2-3 hour session, and celebrates volunteers at the park with annual community events. The Tri Lakes Cares on-site garden in Monument also needs volunteers in Fall, Spring and Summer. Gardening tasks include preparing garden beds, weeding, sowing seeds, and developing the compost. Bring gardening gloves, some tools will be provided on the workdays. Contact Janet Sellers at JanetSellers@ocn.me or Marlene Brown at MarleneBrown@ocn.me for more information.
Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd., Monument. For additional information go to www.al-anon-co.org.
• Alcoholics Anonymous, Thu., Oct. 2, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Oct. 7, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Oct. 9, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Oct. 14, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Oct. 16, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Oct. 21, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Oct. 23, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Tue., Oct. 28, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm; Thu., Oct. 30, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm. Every Tue. & Thu., 7:30 pm Black Forest Lutheran Church, 12455 Black Forest Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80908. AA is a fellowship of people who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Join us with your questions. Info: bflc@bflchurch.org.
• Amateur Ham Radio WØTLM (Tri-Lakes Monument ham radio Association), Mon., Oct. 20, 6 pm-10 pm. Third Mon. (except December). We will open the doors at 6:00 for Connect Time, where members can socialize, meet new people, seek out help, or connect with an Elmer. The business meeting will start at 7 PM – a brief business session followed by an educational presentation. Our meetings provide: (1) Information about public service and fun activities, license classes, emergency support, and more. (2) Technical presentations to advance your knowledge of diverse Amateur Radio topics. All amateur ham radio operators or those interested in becoming one are welcome. Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Building, 166 2nd Street, Monument. For details, contact Bob Witte, bob@k0nr.com or www.W0TLM.com
• American Legion Tri-Lakes Post 9-11, Wed., Oct. 8, 6:30 pm-9:30 pm. Second Wed., 6:30 pm, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Community Meeting House, 300 CO Hwy 105, Monument. New members welcome. Info: Visit website at www.trilakespost9-11.org.
• Benet Hill Monastery, Sun., Oct. 5, 10:15 am-12:15 pm; Sun., Oct. 12, 10:15 am-12:15 pm; Sun., Oct. 19 10:15 am-12:15 pm; Sun., Oct. 26, 10:15 am-12:15 pm. Every Sun., 10:15 am worship service. Let us pray with you, walk in the forest, walk the labyrinth, come and visit prayer sites, Group retreats. 3190 Benet Lane, 80921. See ad on page 3.
• Bingo night, American Legion post 9-11 Tri-Lakes Sat., Oct. 11, 6 pm-9 pm; Sat., Oct. 25, 6 pm-9 pm. 2nd and 4th Sat., 6-9 pm, Kings Deer Golf Club, 19255 Royal Troon Dr, Monument.
• Children’s Literacy Center, Wed., Oct. 1, 4 pm-5 pm; Mon., Oct. 6, 4 pm-5 pm; Wed., Oct. 8, 4 pm-5 pm; Mon., Oct. 13, 4 pm-5 pm; Wed., Oct. 15, 4 pm-5 pm; Mon., Oct. 20, 4 pm-5 pm; Wed., Oct. 22, 4 pm-5 pm; Mon., Oct. 27, 4 pm-5 pm; Wed., Oct. 29, 4 pm-5 pm. Every Mon. & Wed., Sep. 8–Dec. 10. 4–5 pm. Woodmen Valley Chapel, Monument Campus,1681 Wagon Bow Way, Monument, CO 80132. Provides free one-on-one literacy tutoring to TriLakes children in grades 1-6 who are reading below grade level. For more information, to become a volunteer tutor,
friendsoffoxrunpark@gmail.com. We will email you the link the day of the meeting.
• Gleneagle Sertoma, Wed., Oct. 1, 11:45 am-1 pm; Wed., Oct. 15, 11:45 am-1 pm. First and third Wed., 11:45 am to 1 pm. Gleneagle Sertoma is the longest continuously active civic service organization in northern El Paso County. Our regular program presenters address local topics of interest to include local developments, community planning and projects, as well as opportunities to serve your community. Contact Harvey LeCato for meeting location and club information at mbca@comcast.net or 719-331-1212.
• Gleneagle Women’s Club, membership luncheon Fri., Oct. 17, 8 am-5 pm. Third Fri., (Sep.-June), various venues, 12 activity groups, i.e., hiking, bridge, etc. Guests welcome. For information contact Marcie at 520-205-0578.
• Lions Club Bingo, Mon., Oct. 6, 5:30 pm-10 pm; Sat., Oct. 11, 8:30 am-1 pm; Sat., Oct. 18, 8:30 am-1 pm; Sat., Oct. 25, 8:30 am-1 pm. Every Sat. (except the first Sat.), 8:30 am-1 pm and first Mon., 5:30-10 pm Tri-Lakes Lions Club’s portion of the proceeds benefit those in need in the Tri-Lakes community. Updated info and location: Jim Naylor, 719-481-8741 or www.trilakeslionsclub.org.
• Monument Hill Kiwanis Club meeting, Sat., Oct. 4, 8 am-10 am; Sat., Oct. 11, 8 am-10 am; Sat., Oct. 18, 8 am-10 am; Sat., Oct. 25, 8 am-10 am; Sat., Nov. 1, 8 am-10 am. Every Sat., 8 am. www.MHKiwanis.org, MonumentHillKiwanis@gmail.com for details, guests are welcome. Service leadership clubs, Key clubs, Builders Club, and K-kids at D38 schools. Memberships are open to the public. Info: RF Smith, 719-210-4987, www.MHKiwanis. org. See ad on page 8.
• Monument Life Recovery Group, Mon., Oct. 6, 6:30 pm-7:30 pm; Mon., Oct. 13, 6:30 pm-7:30 pm; Mon., Oct. 20, 6:30 pm-7:30 pm; Mon., Oct. 27, 6:30 pm-7:30 pm. Every Mon., 6:30-7:30 pm, The Ascent Church, 1750 Deer Creek Rd. This faith-based support group is for those seeking freedom from all hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Daycare for children under age 11. Info: www.liferecoverygroups.com/ meetings/life-recovery-group-3/
• Monumental Impact Open House, Sat., Oct. 4, 3 pm-5 pm; Sat., Nov. 1, 3 pm-5 pm. First Sat., 3-5 pm, NEW ADDRESS: 866 Hwy 105, Monument. Interested in technology, engineering and entrepreneurship either professionally or for fun? Interested in competitive robotics for adults and high school students? Come connect with us and ask about programs. Info: www.monumentalimpact. org. See ad on page 8.
• Monumental Impact: Make things - learn how!
Tue., Oct. 7, 3 pm-6 pm; Thu., Oct. 9, 3 pm-6 pm; Tue., Oct. 14, 3 pm-6 pm; Thu., Oct. 16, 3 pm-6 pm; Tue., Oct. 21, 3 pm-6 pm; Thu., Oct. 23, 3 pm-6 pm; Tue., Oct. 28, 3 pm-6 pm; Thu., Oct. 30, 3 pm-6 pm. Open Hours: every Tue/Thu., 3-6 pm. All ages. From designing with 3D printers to metal forging, robotics and more. Competitive robotics for adults and high school students. Memberships for maker spaces open to the public. Also: Technology, Techniques and Trends, Monthly discussion groups. Guests welcome: AI (second Thu., 5 pm); Making with 3D Printers, CNCs & Lasers (third Thu., 5 pm). Hosted by Monumental Impact. 866 Hwy 105, Palmer Lake. Info: www.monumentalimpact. org. See ad on page 8.
• Neighborhood Net Ham Radio, Sat., Oct. 4, 10 am-1 pm; Sat., Oct. 11, 10 am-1 pm; Sat., Oct. 18, 10 am-1 pm; Sat., Oct. 25, 10 am-1 pm; Sat., Nov. 1, 10 am-1 pm. Every Sat., 10 am. Amateur ham radio operators practice for emergencies on weekly repeater nets so neighbors can help neighbors. Sign up at www.mereowx.org/neighborhood-net or contactus@mereowx.org.
• Palmer Divide Quiltmakers, Thu., Oct. 2, 6:30 pm8:30 pm. First Thu., 6:30-8:30 pm at Monument Chamber of Commerce building, 166 2nd St, Monument, CO.
• Palmer Lake Art Group, Sat., Oct. 11, 9:30 am-11:30 am. Second Sat., 9:30 am. 300 Hwy 105, NE corner of I-25 and 105. For art programs, social gathering and business meetings. Guests welcome. Info: 719-460-4179, https:// palmerlakeartgroup.co..
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Thu., Oct. 16, 7 pm-8 pm. The PLHS normally meets (open to the public) on the third Thursday at 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Palmer Lake Town Hall, 42 Valley Crescent St. Guest speakers, free to the public. Info: Kokesdm@yahoo.com, or visit www. palmerdividehistory.org
• Relentless Recovery, Recovery Gathering, Mon., Oct. 13, 7:30 pm-8:30 pm; Mon., Oct. 27, 7:30 pm-8:30 pm. 2nd and 4th Mon., 7:30-8:30 pm, hybrid zoom and in person at Lake & Lantern Cafe, 84 CO-105 #2, Palmer Lake. “All humans welcome.” To register: https://hardbeauty.life/ dyr/.
• Ridgeview Baptist Church, Sun., Oct. 5, 10:30 am12 pm; Sun., Oct. 12, 10:30 am-12 pm; Sun., Oct. 19 10:30 am-12 pm; Sun., Oct. 26, 10:30 am-12 pm. Every Sun., 10:30 am, temporarily meeting at 9130 Explorer Dr., Colorado Springs, 80920. Info: 719-357-6515 or www. ridgeviewcolorado.org. See ad on page 6.
• Senior Book Club, Fri., Oct. 10, 11 am-12 pm. Second Fri., 11 am-noon, Silver Key Senior Services, all are welcome. Coffee & snacks. RSVP & info: info@silverkey.org
• Speed Puzzle Event, Tue., Oct. 7, 6:30 pm-9:30 pm; Mon., Oct. 13, 6:30 pm-9:30 pm; Mon., Oct. 20, 6:30 pm9:30 pm. First Tue., second Mon., and third Mon. Trinity Lutheran Church location, 2 hours complete a 500-piece puzzle with a partner. Register at www.mindquestpuzzles. com. See ad on page 2.
• Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Networking Breakfast, Thu., Oct. 2, 7:30 am-9 am; Thu., Oct. 16, 7:30 am-9 am. First and third Thu., in person or via Zoom 166 2nd Street Monument 7:30-9 am free registration at www.TriLakeschamber.com
• Tri-Lakes Cruisers, Wed., Oct. 1, 7 pm-10 pm. First Wed., 7 pm. A nonprofit car club. Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce community room, with numerous activities and events each month. Club membership applications are now being accepted and are available on the website: https:// www.trilakescruisers.com.
• Tri-Lakes Dynamic Rotary Club Meeting, Thu., Oct. 2, 6 pm-8 pm; Thu., Oct. 16, 6 pm-8 pm. First and third Thu., 6 pm-8 pm. First Thursday via zoom and third Thursday in person at the Chamber of Commerce, 166 2nd St., Monument. Details: www.tlrotary.com, Trilakesdynamicrotary@gmail.com. Guests welcome. We are a service club serving Tri-Lakes. Memberships open to the public. Info: www.tlrotary.com.
• Tri-Lakes Parkinson’s Disease Support Group, Sat., Oct. 18, 10 am-12 pm. Third Sat., 10 am-noon, Monument Community Presbyterian Church, 238 Third St., Monument. Info: Syble Krafft, 719-488-2669; Barry (group president), 719-351-9485. If you need any help, please call Syble or Barry.
• Tri-Lakes Women’s Club (TLWC) monthly meeting, Fri., Oct. 17, 11:30 am-1:30 pm. Third Fri., 11:30 am. To become a member, or learn about the club, visit our website at www.tlwc.net Contact Info: Tri-Lakes Women’s Club membership@tlwc.net.
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 7829, Wed., Oct. 15, 7 pm-10 pm. Third Wed., 7 pm, Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce community room, 166 2nd St., Monument. New members welcome. Info: Post Commander and POC Bruce Beyerly, Bruce.Beyerly@gmail.com.
• VFW Auxiliary to Post 7829, Wed., Oct. 15, 7 pm-10 pm. Third Wed., 7 pm Meets at Victory Baptist Church, 325 2nd Street, Suite X, Monument. Guests are welcome to join; if you are a relative of a veteran who served on foreign soil
during war or other military actions, you would be eligible. For more information please contact Kathy Carlson, 719488-1902, carlsonmkc@gmail.com or Linda Lyons, 303579-8114, lindalyons7829@gmail.com.
• Women’s A. A. Step Study, Mon., Oct. 6, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm; Mon., Oct. 13, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm; Mon., Oct. 20, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm; Mon., Oct. 27, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm. Every Mon., 6:30 pm, meeting remotely, check for details. Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 675 Baptist Rd. Park in the west lot. Info: 866-641-9190.
SPECIAL EVENTS
• 100+ Women Who Care Bi-Annual Meeting, Wed., Oct. 15, 5 pm-7 pm. Wednesday, October 15th 2025, social hour at 5 pm, the meeting starts at 6 pm at the Woodmoor Barn, 1691 Woodmoor Drive. We are 100+ Women committed to contributing $100 two times a year to local TriLakes charities, which will positively impact our communities by allowing us to give up to $20,000 annually. Together we can make a difference that we can see! Big impact, without a big commitment. For more information on how to join us visit: http://www.100womenwhocaretrilakes.com/
• Bella art and Frame Gallery, Saturday community art classes, Fri., Oct. 17, 1 pm-4 pm; Sat., Oct. 25, 1 pm-4 pm; Sat., Nov. 15, 1 pm-4 pm. Bella art and Frame Gallery, Saturday community art classes, 1-4pm. Oct. 17, gel prints workshop, Lisa Faherty; Sat., Oct. 25 portrait drawing workshop, Micaela Cimino; Sat., Nov. 15, soft pastel ornament painting workshop with Lisa Faherty; 251 Front St., Monument, 719-487-7691.
• Benet Hill Monastery - Blessing of the Animals, Sat., Oct. 4, 3 pm-5 pm. Blessing of the Animals, Sat., Oct. 4, 3 pm. 3190 Benet Lane, Colorado Springs. See ad on page 3.
• Benet Hill Monastery - Melanie DeMore Concert Sun., Oct. 5, 11:30 am-1:30 pm. 3190 Benet Lane, Colorado Springs. See ad on page 3.
• Checkered Table Talk, Tue., Oct. 7, Doors open 5 pm, program 5:30-6:30 pm, Woodmoor Barn Community Center, 1691 Woodmoor Dr, Monument. Tickets: $10 per person: on-line and at the door (based on space availability). Checkered Table Talks is a monthly speaker series where community and curiosity come together in an indoor picnic-style setting! Oct. speaker: Brad Estes, President, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. Switchbacks FC: Looking to the Future. Bring your own picnic, (prize for best picnic). Beer, wine, cider, hard seltzers, and similar beverages are welcome. No hard liquor or spirits. Info: call 719-440-8969.
• Covered Treasures Bookstore Book Signing, Thu., Oct. 16, 4 pm-7 pm; Margaret Mizushima, Burning Cry; Kathleen Donnelly, Colorado K-9 Secrets, Killer Secrets. Sat., Oct. 18, 11-1 p.m., Doug Freed, Over Hill and Over Dale; 12-2 p.m., Andrew Singer & Stacy May, Now Is the Time and She Journeys. 105 Second Street, Monument, 719-4812665.
• Downtown Monument Safe Trick or Treat, Fri., Oct. 31, 4 pm-6 pm. Fri, Oct. 31, 4-6 p.m., Downtown Monument. Participants include Covered Treasures Bookstore, 105 Second Street, Monument, 719-481-2665.
• Front Range Makers' Market, Sat., Oct. 11, 9 am-4 pm; Sun., Oct. 12, 10 am-3 pm. Lewis Palmer High School, see ad on page 3
• Monument Professional Firefighters Annual Pumpkin Giveaway, Sat., Oct. 25, 10 am-2 pm. Monument Marketplace Clock Tower, 15986 Jackson Creek Parkway, Monument. Community Appreciation Event. Live music! Free candy! Come join the fun. Please bring a nonperishable food item for food drive. Sponsored by Diana Goodfellow Mortgages of Boulder and a few Local 4319 members and their families.
• OCN Volunteer Mailing Days, Thu., Oct. 2, 7 am-8:30 am; Thu., Oct. 30, 7 am-8:30 am. Approx. 7-8:30 am. We are all volunteers at OCN and need YOUR help, even for an hour or two, getting the papers ready to mail. Contact AllenAlchian@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
• OCN Publication, Sat., Oct. 4, 12 am-11:59 pm; Sat., Nov. 1, 12 am-11:59 pm. We are all volunteers at OCN and need YOUR help. Become an OCN reporter! Help us report ‘What was discussed and what was decided.’ Contact me TODAY! JohnHeiser@ocn.me or (719) 488-3455.
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Thu., Oct. 16, 7 pm-8 pm; Thu., Nov. 20, 7 pm-8 pm. The PLHS normally meets (open to the public) on the third Thursday at 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Palmer Lake Town Hall, 42 Valley Crescent St. Guest speakers, free to the public. Info: Kokesdm@yahoo.com, or visit www.palmerdividehistory.org
• Restyle Your Fur, Mon., Oct. 20, 10 am-5 pm; Tue., Oct. 21, 10 am-5 pm. The Love Shop, 252 Front St. Downtown Monument. See the ad on page 10.
• St. Matthias Blessing of the Animals, Sun., Oct. 5, 3 pm-5 pm. Join us at St. Matthias Episcopal Church, 18320 Furrow Road, Monument. We’ll gather outside to celebrate the Blessing of the Animals. All animals welcome! Bring your pet for a blessing. See ad on page 5.
• St. Peter Catholic School Trunk or Treat and Fall Festival, Fri., Oct. 24, 5 pm-7 pm. 124 First Street, Monument. 5-7 pm Games and Food. 6-7 pm Trunk or Treating. https://www.petertherockschool.org. See ad on page 2.
• TLWC's Joys of the Holiday Season Holiday Home Tour, Fri., Nov. 21, 10 am-4 pm; Sat., Nov. 22, 10 am-4
Content
Articles in Our Community News focus on the deliberations of Tri-Lakes area governmental bodies such as the Monument Board of Trustees, Palmer Lake Town Council, and many of the local water, sanitation, fire, and school district boards. Unlike papers that try to figure out what the “story” is and then get quotes on each side to presumably lead the reader to conclude what the “truth” is, OCN’s role is to report in detail on public meetings of local governmental entities. We report what was talked about and what was decided supplemented with board packet information. By reading OCN, you can find out what you might have learned if you had attended those public meetings. In this context, “truth” is that the articles accurately represent what transpired at the meetings.
The content of ads, inserts, and letters to the editor in OCN is solely the responsibility of the advertisers and authors who place those ads, inserts, and letters. The appearance of an ad, insert, or letter in OCN does not imply endorsement of the ad, insert, or letter’s content or purpose. While OCN does not knowingly run false ads, inserts, or letters, we do not research the accuracy of that content. Readers are encouraged to do their own research prior to committing to use the products or services offered or accept the conclusions of letters to the editor. Readers with concerns about the content of an ad, insert, or letter should take up those concerns with the advertiser or author.
Contact John Heiser, Publisher, at johnheiser@ ocn.me or (719) 488-3455 with any questions.
pm. Fri.-Sat., Nov. 21-22, 10-4pm. Tour five northern El Paso County homes professionally decorated for the Holiday Season. A Tri-Lakes Women’s Club event benefitting local non-profits, public education, and service providers. For tickets and information: https://www.joysoftheseasonht. org. See ad on page 8.
• Tri-Lakes Women's Club (TLWC) Book Discussion Fri., Oct. 10, 11:30 am-1:30 pm. Tri-Lakes Women’s Club will meet Oct. 10, at The Golf Club at Bear Dance, 6630 Bear Dance Dr., Larkspur. Guest speakers Michael Weinfeld and John Howe present highlights of their book: Shootouts, Killings, and War Heroes: The History Hidden in Monument Cemetery • Western Museum of Mining and Industry - Miners' Pumpkin Patch, Sat., Oct. 4, 9 am-4 pm; Sat., Oct. 11, 9 am-4 pm; Sat., Oct. 18, 9 am-4 pm; Sat., Oct. 25, 9 am-4 pm. Our Biggest Event of the Year… All October Long! Fall is calling — and we’re answering with fun for the whole family, every Saturday in October! Get ready for hayrides, pumpkin picking, lawn games, food trucks, and so much MORE. Each weekend brings something new — from magical moments with a real magician to up-close animal encounters and surprise guest appearances you won’t want to miss! It’s fallfilled fun you’ll want to come back for again and again. See you there! 225 N Gate Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80921 info@wmmi.org 719-488-0880
Our Community Calendar carries listings on a space-available basis for Tri-Lakes events that are sponsored by local governmental entities and not-for-profit organizations. We include events that are open to the general public and are not religious or self-promotional in nature. If space is available, complimentary calendar listings are included, when requested, for events advertised in the current issue. To have your event listed at no charge in Our Community Calendar, please send the information to calendar@ocn.me or Our Community News, P.O. Box 1742, Monument, Colorado 80132.
Paul’s Asphalt Service
Top-quality asphalt paving and maintenance A+ rated by the BBB and great on-line reviews! Hot mix asphalt paving • 5 types of asphalt sealcoating Hot rubber crack sealant/asphalt patch • Recycled asphalt paving Paul Williams, Jr.
719-453-4477 Monument Asphaltserviceonline.com
Letters to Our Community
Our Community News welcomes letters to the editor on topics of general interest to readers in the Tri-Lakes area. We do not knowingly print letters that are substantially the same as letters that have been submitted to other publications. To ensure that OCN contains a variety of viewpoints, each letter writer is limited to a maximum of one (1) letter per issue and six (6) letters within a twelve (12)month period. To submit a letter, please:
• Email your letter, preferably as an attached Microsoft Word document, to editor@ocn.me or mail a copy to Our Community News, P.O. Box 1742, Monument, CO 80132-1742.
• Identify your submission as a letter to the editor and confirm that it has not been submitted to any other publication.
• Include a suggested headline or title that summarizes the topic you are addressing.
• Limit your letter to no more than 300 words including your suggested headline and closing.
• Include your full name, home address, phone numbers, and email address, if you have one. Only your name will be published.
• Submit your letter so we receive it no later than midnight, Friday, two weeks prior to the publication date.
If you have not received an acknowledgement two days after your email submission or one week after you mailed your letter, please contact John Heiser, Publisher, at (719) 488-3455 or editor@ ocn.me. At OCN’s sole discretion, we may ask you for clarification of your statements. Include references, such as website links, in your letter for any facts and figures you cite. OCN does not guarantee every letter will appear in print or on-line and does not guarantee a publication date. The number of letters printed on a particular topic or in a particular issue may be limited. Letters containing personal attacks or endorsements for or complaints about individually-named commercial products or services will not be published.
Look for our next issue
Saturday, Nov. 1
Ad space reservations due: Fri., Oct. 10
Finished ad artwork due: Fri., Oct. 17
Letters to the editor due: Fri., Oct. 17
Calendar items due: Fri., Oct. 24
Visit our website to read, download, and search all the back issues at WWW.OCN.ME
OCN is published on the first Saturday of each month by
Colorado Cooperative Association
Our Community News, Inc.
John Heiser, President (719) 488-3455—FAX: (828) 649-2720
