Inside COS Town Tidings Issue #036

🤣 Today’s Chuckle
🌤 COS Weather - warm
💥 Who Should We Feature?

🚒 Burning Issues: Fire Chiefs Rally Against Property Tax Relief
- What’s your opinion?!

🚦 Nighttime I-25 and Academy Blvd Closures

🤝 Join the Journey: El Paso County Fairgrounds

📆 Upcoming Local Events - updated daily
🤶 Holiday Craft Fairs

🚫 Tech Tip: Update or Upgrade: Navigating the Risks of Device Obsolescence

🐦 Window Wonderland: Birds and Bliss in Your Winter Sanctuary

What did the turkey say to the hunter on Thanksgiving Day?
👉 “Quack! Quack" 🤣

Our hope is that we made you smile today…pass it on.

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🚒 Burning Issues: Fire Chiefs Rally Against Property Tax Relief

El Paso County's Fire Chiefs, representing 27 departments, have jointly appealed to Governor Polis and lawmakers to reconsider property tax relief measures. Fearful of the impact on fire district budgets, they argue that any reduction in property valuation directly affects their revenue, potentially compromising essential services.

President of the Pikes Peak Fire Chief Council, highlights the challenges posed by inflation and supply chain issues, leading to increased costs for equipment and infrastructure. To counteract potential property tax cuts, the Fire Chiefs propose alternatives such as reducing income tax or introducing a statewide sales tax.

As legislators prepare for a special session on property tax relief, Democrats are inclined toward backfilling affected school and fire districts, while Republicans prefer long-term budget adjustments, expressing opposition to immediate backfilling.

What do you think? 👇

🚦 Nighttime I-25 and Academy Blvd Closures

Started November 15th, the Colorado Department of Transportation initiated key lane closures for the Military Access, Mobility & Safety Improvement Project (MAMSIP). Expect a southbound I-25 right lane closure between South Academy Boulevard and Mesa Ridge Parkway from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. on November 16 and 7 p.m. to 9 a.m. on November 17.

Simultaneously, South Academy Boulevard experiences ongoing closures for bridge work, auxiliary lane work, and shifts on Bradley Road under the bridge.

These measures contribute to safety and efficiency enhancements, addressing congestion and improving infrastructure. Check the project's website for details and alerts.

🤝 Join the Journey: El Paso County Fairgrounds

The Board of El Paso County Commissioners is actively seeking two private citizen, community volunteers for the Fairgrounds Corporation.

Interested individuals can apply for the open positions by November 30, 2023. The Fairgrounds Corporation, a non-profit entity, plays a crucial role in managing liquor licenses, supporting events at the El Paso County Fairgrounds, and funding programs like the El Paso County Fair and 4-H.

Monthly meetings are held on the second Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Swink Hall on the El Paso County Fairgrounds, located at 366 10th St, Calhan, CO. Apply online at El Paso website or send completed applications to the provided address on the website.

Upcoming COS Area Events

• Nov 16th, 2-3:30 PM; Holistic Nutrition: Sensible Eating @The Independence Center 729 S Tejon

• Nov 17th, 5-7 PM; Acacia Park Tree Lighting

• Nov 18th, 10 AM; Estate Planning & Long-Term Care Insurance @Jackson Creek Senior Living FREE, must RSVP

• Nov 18th, noon-3 PM; Turkey and Farmers Market Giveaway by Solid Rock Community Devlp Corp, 3175 S Academy

• Nov 18th, 6-9 PM: Murder Mystery Night: High Noon at Dead Mans Saloon @Goat Patch Brewing Company (ages 21+) $40 fee

• Nov 18th & Dec 2nd, 7:30 PM; RiP Improv @MAT (Millibo Art Theatre) $15

• Nov 19th, 2 PM & 7 PM; Trans-Siberian Orchestra $74+

• Nov 20th, 1-3 PM; Paint the GoG $20

🧵🍂 Upcoming Holiday Craft Fairs 🤶🧶

• Nov. 18: Holiday Craft Show — 10 AM - 3 PM, Fountain Creek Nature Center, 320 Peppergrass Lane, Fountain

• Nov. 25-26: Winter-ish Market — 12-6 PM. Lost Friend Brewing Company, 5440 Tomah Dr

• Dec. 2: Holiday Craft Fair — 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Cheyenne Mountain High School, 1200 Cresta Rd

• Dec. 2: Colorado Farm and Art Market's Holiday Market — 11 a.m.-3 p.m., The Margarita at Pine Creek, 7350 Pine Creek Rd

• Dec. 2-3: A Very Merry Downtown Market — 10 AM - 6 PM Dec 2; 10 AM - 4 PM Dec 3, 108 W. Cimarron St

• Dec. 9: PPBC Craft Fair — 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Pikes Peaks Peak Biker's Church, 1318 N. Circle Drive

• Dec. 9: Vista Ridge High School Craft Fair — 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 6888 Black Forest Road

• Dec. 9-10: Winterfest Craft Fair — 9 AM - 5 PM Dec 9; 10 AM - 4 PM Dec 10, Norris Penrose Event Center 1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd

Have an upcoming event you want us to share?

👉 Click here to submit your event for consideration 👈

🚫 Update or Upgrade: Navigating the Risks of Device Obsolescence

In the digital age, where there's an internet connection, there's potential for cyber threats. Security updates act as shields against the latest tricks of cybercriminals. It's vital to keep all your devices, from smartphones to computers, regularly updated. However, it's not just about the obvious culprits; smart speakers, security cameras, and any device using your home network need to be considered.

If your gear is no longer receiving updates, it's time for an upgrade. Regularly check your network to ensure all connected devices are recognized, and if anything seems unfamiliar, take immediate action. Consider setting up a separate Wi-Fi network for your devices and always use strong, complex passwords to enhance your cybersecurity.

*Original article @Komando.com

🐦 Window Wonderland: Birds and Bliss in Your Winter Sanctuary  

On Day 4 of our Winter Wellness Retreat, "Cultivating Tranquility Indoors: Your Winter Retreat," let's welcome your feathered friends bringing joy with bird-watching into your cozy haven.

Set up a bird feeder or hang a birdhouse by your window to invite the delightful presence of local birds. Immerse yourself in the simple joy of bird-watching as these feathered friends flutter about, bringing a touch of the outdoors inside.

For an enhanced experience, provide birdseed specifically formulated for the birds of the Front Range (Songbird Orchid in Old Colorado City specializes in such hand-mixed blends) and discover the unique species gracing your winter retreat. Transform your indoor space into a haven for both you and your newfound friends, creating moments of joy and connection with the beauty of nature. 🐦🏡 

**Information in this newsletter is NOT meant to diagnose or treat any condition nor is it medical advice. Please consult your physician before making any changes to your current lifestyle. 

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